First Posted: 4/15/2013

Each year in the United States an estimated 5,000 children are hospitalized due to near-drowning. Thousands of people drown annually in the United States.

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children under the age of 5 years. Learning to swim and be safe around the water are survival skills.

The YMCA offers the SPLASH program out of its concern for the safety of children and because it is a great way to help children grow in spirit, mind and body.

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“SPLASH is brand new program we are very excited to start at the Y,” said Craig Lukatch, CEO, Greater Pittston YMCA.

“Our focus is on our children and because summer is just around the corner, it’s very important that they know how to be safe around the water.”

In this program, third-graders learn basic swimming skills and practice safety habits while in and around the water, which results in a sense of accomplishment, increased self-confidence and security.

“SPLASH is completely free to families and schools to have their students participate,” said Susan Vosik-Pekala, aquatic director, Greater Pittston YMCA.

SPLASH will teach basic water skills, including basic swim skills, deep water swimming skills, treading water and survival floating

Children living in Luzerne, Wyoming and lower Lackawanna Counties are eligible for the program and must provide documentation proving current grade status.

The first group of lessons begins April 29 and space is limited. Classes will continue through the summer.

For more information, call Susan at 655-2255 ext.106.