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.