Swimming is one of the many activities children look forward to during the summer. Before they jump into the pool, children and their family members should review safety guidelines.

According to data from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4. The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) has offered tips to keep children safe in and around water.

Unlike the way it is sometimes portrayed in the media, drowning is typically silent and quick, and there is not time to ask for help. For this reason, children should ask for permission before going in or near the water.

When children are swimming, they should be actively supervised at all times. Children should be taught to only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children without distractions.

Parents and guardians should supervise their children whenever they are in or near water. Whether it is bath time or kids are taking a dip in a pool, adults should make sure the children are within arm's reach at all times.

Adults and children should not engage in breath-holding activities. Holding one's breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming can be dangerous.

Inexperienced swimmers and non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.

If a loved one is struggling in deep water, the natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. However, even the best swimmers can be overpowered by a panicked person, pulling the rescuer under water. Instead, rescuers should use the "reach, throw, don't go" method. They should use a long object to reach for their loved one and pull them to safety. By using this technique, an adult or child can help a loved one without compromising his or her own safety.

To learn more about water safety at the Y, visit https://ymcagbw.org/safety-around-water.