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Newburgh, NY

Water Safety

Much More Than Swimming with a Life Jacket 

Keeping kids safe is the primary responsibility of adults, and nobody knows this better than the swim instructors at Hudson Valley Swim. They’re trained professionals, not inexperienced high schoolers or college students looking to make a little extra money over the summer, and they make water safety their first priority! Swimming with a life jacket or any other flotation device is one way to stay safe of course, but these safety devices can give a child a false sense of security. Our instructors know that learning how to swim is truly the best way to stay safe in the water; they’re available to students of all ages and through all the stages of learning, from start to finish, leaving new swimmers feeling confident in their abilities.

What’s the Difference?

Water Safety vs. Drowning Prevention

You might think that drowning prevention and water safety are one and the same, but in fact, they’re not. Drowning prevention addresses isolated incidences, while water safety is a holistic approach toward the overall goal of safe swimming. This approach can include:
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Erecting fences and alarms around pools and other bodies of water to keep children and other non-swimmers safe from water dangers.

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Making sure children and other non-swimmers are carefully supervised while near bodies of water, like pools, lakes, and ponds, as well as placing an emphasis on ocean swimming safety.

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Choosing the right color for a child's bathing suit can enhance safety. Light blue or white suits can blend with the pool liner, particularly when there's a lot of movement in the water. Bright or neon colors make it easier to spot a child in distress.

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Equipping children and adults with the water safety skills needed to protect themselves in water. Hudson Valley Swim programs can do just that!

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Swimming with life jackets that are tested, industry-approved, and age-appropriate, especially in open water.

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Staying prepared for an emergency through CPR training and basic water rescue skills that can make the difference between life and death.

Why Is Water Safety Important?

Did you know drowning is the single leading cause of accidental death for children ages one to four and remains among the top four causes of unintentional deaths until age 55? Every year, there are over 4,500 accidental drowning deaths in the U.S. alone, making water safety extremely important. No matter how old you are, swimming can be a dangerous activity, which is why our trained and professional swim instructors place such an emphasis on safety.

And this is especially true when little ones are involved. Our instructors are certified in life-saving measures, never leaving their students unattended in the water and always supervising them while swimming. Their priority is their safety and well-being, and parents can feel confident knowing their child is in good and caring hands.

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What’s the Difference?

Water Safety vs. Drowning Prevention

You might think that drowning prevention and water safety are one and the same, but in fact, they’re not. Drowning prevention addresses isolated incidences, while water safety is a holistic approach toward the overall goal of safe swimming. This approach can include:
Swimming in Designated Areas

Swimming in Designated Areas

It’s always best to swim in designated areas that are supervised by lifeguards. These areas are regularly inspected for safety and have professionals trained in water rescue.

Swimming with  a Buddy

Swimming with a Buddy

Swimming with a buddy is an essential safety measure. Having someone with you while you swim ensures that there is someone to help or seek assistance if needed.

Wearing the Right Swim Attire

Wearing the Right Swim Attire

A bathing suit should be much more than a fashion statement; it must help keep swimmers noticeable in water. The color of a suit shouldn’t blend in Read More >

A bathing suit should be much more than a fashion statement; it must help keep swimmers noticeable in water. The color of a suit shouldn’t blend in with water, especially if there’s churn. Therefore, stay away from whites and light blues and choose bright reds, oranges, or greens instead.

Being Aware of Water Conditions

Being Aware of Water Conditions

Before entering the water, assess the conditions. Check for warning signs, flags, or announcements about water quality, tides, and weather conditions.

Staying Hydrated

Staying Hydrated

Swimming can be physically demanding, and it's easy to forget to keep hydrated while enjoying the water. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming to prevent dehydration.

Being Cautious of Diving

Being Cautious of Diving

Diving can be exhilarating, but it can also lead to severe injuries if not done correctly. Always check the water depth and obstructions before diving.

Knowing Your Limits

Knowing Your Limits

Understanding your swimming abilities and respecting your limits is crucial for safety. Swim within your comfort zone and don't push yourself beyond your capabilities.

Find Your Level

Not sure which class is best? Use the level finder to find the perfect fit!

Select the student age group from the options given below






Will your child stay on the wall, steps, or platform without a parent holding them?


Can your child float, tread, face in water, and paddle for 5 yards?

Can your child swim freestyle 10-15 yards?

Can your child swim 1 lap of all 4 strokes?

Can your child float, tread for 30 seconds, face in water, and paddle half the pool length?

Can your child swim a full lap of freestyle and backstroke?

Can your child swim multiple laps and tread water for 60 seconds?

Can your teen float, tread, swim under, and paddle half the pool length?

Can your teen swim a full length of freestyle and backstroke?

Can your teen swim multiple laps of all 4 strokes and tread water for 60 seconds?

Can you float, tread for 5 seconds, swim under, and paddle half the pool length?

Can you swim a full length of freestyle and backstroke?

Can you swim multiple laps of all 4 strokes?

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Recommended Level:

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