Why May Matters: National Water Safety Month & Emler’s 50-Year

Commitment to Saving Lives

Every day, we teach children how to swim, but this month, we’re doing even more.

May is National Water Safety Month and at Emler Swim School, we believe this is one of the most important times of the year. Not just because summer is around the corner but because lives are at stake.

The Hard Truth: Drowning Is the Leading Cause of Death for Young Children

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the #1 cause of unintentional death for children ages 1–4 in the United States. It can happen in seconds and silently.

But the good news is this: formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88% (Source: NIH).

That’s why for over 50 years, Emler has been dedicated to more than just teaching swim strokes. We build water confidence, foster life-saving skills, and create joyful experiences that help children thrive in and around the water. As proud members of the United States Swim School Association, we align with their mission to promote water safety through education and awareness, reinforcing our commitment to making every child safer in the water.

This Month, We’re Taking Action

From May 1–31, we’re partnering with three incredible nonprofit organizations to raise funds for families who otherwise couldn’t afford swim lessons. Because every child deserves the chance to be safe in the water.

We're proud to support:

• Every Child A Swimmer – Advocating for swim education access and legislation to make lessons a requirement for all children.

• Hope Floats Foundation – Providing scholarships for swim lessons through a nationwide network of swim schools.

• Miss Tristan Foundation – Honoring the life of Tristan Mayo by supporting swim safety awareness and education.

Click on the foundation names to donate and make a difference

Why Swim Lessons Matter — And Why Families Choose Emler

Every child is different, and every journey in the water should be too. That’s why Emler’s 11-level curriculum, expert-trained instructors and warm-water pools (kept at 90º+) offer the perfect environment for children to learn with confidence and joy.

Whether it’s your baby’s first splash or your preschooler learning to float and swim to safety, we meet your child where they are — and help them grow.

Emler Swim School has:

• Served families for over five decades
• Taught over one million lessons
• Maintained a proven track record of safety, trust, and parent satisfaction

Join Us in Making a Difference This May

There’s never been a more important time to talk about water safety. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned swim family, you can be part of the solution:

• Enroll your child in swim lessons – They’re more than just a skill—they’re a life-saving foundation.
• Support our fundraisers – Your donations directly help children get the lessons they need.
• Spread awareness – Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the importance of swim safety and consistent supervision.

Let’s Work Together to End Childhood Drowning

At Emler Swim School, we believe water should bring joy—not tragedy. And with your help, we can give more children access to the skills they need to stay safe, confident, and happy in the water.

Sources: CDC, NIH, National Water Safety Month