Free swim safety clinic in Wilmington gives kids life-saving skills before summer’s end
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Local children will have the chance to learn important water safety skills for free this weekend as the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina hosts a Safety Around Water clinic designed to help prevent drownings and build swimming confidence.
The free clinic will take place Saturday, July 25, from 9 a.m. to noon at Legion Stadium Pool, located at 2131 Carolina Beach Road in Wilmington. The program is open to children ages 3 to 14, but families must register ahead of time because space is limited.
With southeastern North Carolina surrounded by beaches, rivers, lakes, and backyard pools, organizers say knowing how to stay safe around water is a skill every child should have.
“Drowning is preventable, and every child deserves the opportunity to learn the skills that can save a life,” said Lindsey Hays, Aquatics Director for the Nir Family YMCA. “Our Safety Around Water program helps children become more confident in and around the water while teaching families important safety practices they can use throughout the year.”
During the clinic, children will learn essential skills, including:
- Safe behaviors around pools, lakes, rivers, and the ocean
- What to do if they accidentally fall into water
- Basic swimming and floating techniques
- How to recognize emergencies and respond appropriately
The YMCA’s nationally recognized Safety Around Water program focuses on helping children develop confidence and awareness in aquatic environments while giving families access to water safety education regardless of financial circumstances.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning remains one of the leading causes of unintentional injury-related deaths among children. The YMCA says teaching children basic swimming skills and safe behaviors around water can help reduce that risk.
Safety Around Water Clinic Details
- When: Saturday, July 25, 2026
- Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Where: Legion Stadium Pool 2131 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington, NC 28412
- Ages: 3–14 years old
- Cost: Free (registration required)
- Families can register online.
