Water Safety

The YMCA installed River Rescue Stations at five popular swimming spots across Douglas County: Stewart Park, Cleveland Rapids Park, River Forks Park, Whistler’s Bend Park, and Hestness Landing. Each station is equipped with life-saving equipment and clear instructions to assist in water emergencies—providing critical support when every second counts.

Through generous community support, we’ve distributed more than 3,700 free, properly fitted youth life jackets over the past several summers. These life jackets are available at community and YMCA events throughout the season and are also stocked at our River Rescue Stations for public use. By removing cost as a barrier, we’re helping families take simple, life-saving steps toward safer water recreation.

At the YMCA, water safety starts with education and access. As part of our mission to equip the community, we offer a variety of swim lesson levels year-round—open to the public and designed for all ages and abilities. We also provide lifeguard certification courses, helping ensure our entire region is staffed with trained, capable professionals. Most recently, our Aquatics team certified 16 new lifeguards who are now serving at pools and facilities throughout Douglas County—not just at the Y.