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District

Water Safety

Oneida City School District Water Safety & Drowning Prevention

Oneida City School District Water Safety & Drowning Prevention

In accordance with New York State Education Law § 926, the Oneida City School District provides the

following information to help families access life-saving water safety instruction.

Local Low-Cost/No-Cost Swimming Options:

  • Oneida Family YMCA, 701 Seneca Street, Oneida, NY

Assistance Offered: Sliding-scale financial assistance / Changing Lives Program

Contact: 315 - 363-7788

  • Howard T. Chapman Pool, 60 North Main Street, Oneida, NY 

Assistance Offered: Swim Lessons mentioned on the City of Oneida website at the Howard T. Chapman Pool. Please contact for details. 

Contact: (315) 363-4800

 

How to Enroll in Lessons:

Use the contact information above for the Oneida YMCA and the Howard T. Chapman Pool options. To find a swimming program that fits your family’s needs, we also recommend:

- Contacting the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley or YMCA of Central New York to inquire

about their financial aid applications.

- Checking the Oneida County Youth Bureau or Madison County Health Department for

seasonal youth program announcements.

- Consulting the New York State Department of Health drowning prevention resources for

safe swimming tips.

Winter and Ice Safety

  • Never let children play on ice unless an adult has confirmed it is at least four inches thick of clear, blue ice.

  • If the ice is white or opaque, it is only half as strong; it must be at least eight inches thick to be considered safe for walking.

  • Ensure children wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one heavy layer.

  • Be aware that younger children are at higher risk for frostbite even when temperatures are above freezing. Districts typically suspend outdoor PE or recess when wind chills fall below 20°F

  • Warn children to stay away from docks where "bubblers" (de-icers) are used, as they create open water or dangerously thin ice even in sub-zero weather.

Water Safety and Drowning Prevention

  • Ensure home pools have four-sided fencing at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates.

  • Check that life jackets are appropriate for the child's weight and are in good condition. "Water wings" are not a substitute for a life jacket.

  • Enroll children in age-appropriate swimming lessons that result in a completion certificate, as required for disclosure under the new law.

  • Designate a "Water Watcher" who is not distracted by a phone or book while children are near any body of water.

  • Ensure all caregivers know how to call 911 and are encouraged to take

    a CPR certification course.