Most of us understand and follow the rules when it comes to keeping our phones out of our hands and remaining focused when we drive. But those little devices can distract us at other potentially dangerous times, too.

How many times have you been puttering through a parking lot, only to have to slam on your brakes when a person with their eyes buried in their cellphone walks in front of you? Or, how many times have you been asked to watch pets or children — perhaps at a park — and gotten sucked into scrolling on your phone only to be jolted back to reality just in time to prevent a nasty situation? It’s usually in those moments when we sheepishly put our phones down and switch back to the vigilance the situation requires.

But what if we aren’t just in time? The YMCA wants us to consider that during this National Water Safety Month (and all the time), as it promotes its water safety campaign “Phones Down, Eyes Up.”

National Drowning Prevention Alliance numbers show approximately 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present. Even when lifeguards are present, parents or guardians accompanying a child are often able to spot an emergency sooner.

Undistracted supervision is the key — and not just at the pool. Whether it be lakes, beaches, rivers or pools (backyard kiddie pools or giant public pools, size makes no difference), the YMCA suggests designating an adult “water watcher,” who is free of distractions. That can be conversations, alcohol and certainly phones.

“The YMCA of Parkersburg (West Virginia) remains committed to being a leader in water safety in our community,” said Benton Walker, CEO of the YMCA of Parkersburg. “From year-round swim lessons for children and adults to lifeguard certification courses, we are always seeking ways to prevent drowning. The Mid-Ohio Valley’s proximity to the Ohio River reminds us that water safety extends beyond the pool.”

In fact, the YMCA offers other tips, such as what color bathing suit is safest for a child to wear, at ymca.org/phones-down-eyes-up.

But Step One must be — as is the case when we get behind the wheel — put the phone down and stay focused on the task at hand. Keep your attention where it belongs, on keeping our kids safer this summer.