Take the Pledge to Put Phones Down When Around the Water this Summer

It seems like such a quick moment to respond to a text, answer a work email or make a quick grocery list,
but quick actions can quickly become major distractions. And distractions around the water can have
major consequences. In fact, 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present.

“People think they’ll hear someone if they’re struggling in the water, because that’s what we see in tv and
movies,” says Kelly Austin, Aquatics Director. “In actuality, drowning is silent and can happen in as little as 30 seconds. When we’re looking at our phones, we don’t see what’s happening around us.”

The YMCA has launched a water safety campaign—Phones Down, Eyes Up™—in order to draw attention
to this safety issue and encourage parents and caregivers to put phones and tablets away when
monitoring children in and around the water. The YMCA of Greater Erie is asking families to visit
PhonesDownEyesUp.org to take the water safety pledge, indicating you will put away your phones when
around the water this summer. Families who take the pledge will also have access to educational tools,
including a reminder wallpaper for their phones, monthly newsletters with water safety tips, and
downloadable lanyards to signify their role as Water Watchers.

“At the YMCA of Greater Erie, we encourage adults to designate a Water Watcher when children are in or near the water,” explains Austin. Water Watchers are adults whose role is to watch the water—undistracted by phones, books, conversations or alcohol. “We know how easily distractions can happen around water, but just one moment of inattention can have serious consequences. The Y is committed to
empowering families with the tools and information they need to stay safe around water.”

To learn more, visit phonesdowneyesup.org.