It is reported last year in Maricopa and Pinal counties, 51 kids under 12 years old were involved in deadly water-related incidents. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for kids 1 to 4 years old, and second leading cause of accidental death for kids ages 5 to 14.

That sad statistic is nearly twice the national average.

The Valley of the Sun YMCA is offering 2,000 free swimming lessons during the month of May.

The first 2,000 people to register at YMCA pools the weeks of May 13-23 will get a free two-week swim lesson.

This special is part of the Y’s Safety Around Water program, “which is designed to teach non-swimmers survival skills and engage and educate parents about the importance of water safety skills and provide more of America’s youth access to water safety lessons.”

Registration is based on a first come, first serve and all interested participants need to sign up for the free swim lesson session.

Registrations are accepted in person at all local YMCA branches with pools. To find your nearest YMCA location here.