Greater Scranton YMCA Urges Community to Prioritize Water Safety by Joining National “Phones Down, Eyes Up™” Campaign

The Greater Scranton YMCA is proud to participate in the launch of YMCA of the USA’s National Phones Down, Eyes Up™ campaign this May in honor of National Water Safety Month. This campaign is focused on reducing distractions around water and raising awareness about the importance of vigilance when families visit pools and waterfronts this summer.

Statistics from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance show that 88% of drownings occur with at least one adult present, highlighting the critical need for caregivers to stay alert when supervising children around water. The Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign encourages families to keep their phones away and stay focused while supervising children at pools, lakes, beaches, or other bodies of water.

“The Greater Scranton YMCA is excited to be part of this important national campaign,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “People think they’ll hear someone if they’re struggling in the water, because that’s what we see in tv and movies,” says Surridge. “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.”

As part of the Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign, the Greater Scranton YMCA is calling on families to designate a “Water Watcher”— an adult whose sole responsibility is to supervise children near water, free from distractions like phones, conversations, or alcohol. “We know how easily distractions can happen around water, but just one moment of inattention can have serious consequences. The Greater Scranton YMCA is committed to empowering families with the tools and information they need to stay safe around water.”

The campaign’s website, PhonesDownEyesUp.org, offers a variety of helpful resources for families, including digital safety materials, a pledge to commit to water safety, and educational tools to help families stay safe this summer. Families who take the pledge will have access to resources such as phone wallpaper reminders, monthly safety tips, and downloadable Water Watcher lanyards.

For more information on how you and your family can become Water Watchers and take part in the Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign in our community, visit phonesdowneyesup.org.