4 Weekend Drownings
Tragically Kick-off Summer Season
DPCA Hosts Water Safety
Day May 13 – FREE! Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort
Media Contact: Jay Arthur, DPCA Vice President, 602-518-6008
The Valley experienced four drownings this past weekend,
spanning age groups from toddler to older adult. The deaths sadden and
frustrate water safety officials.
“We have barely entered into the high temps that really
drive people to water,” says Drowning Prevention Coalition or Arizona President
Meghan Chute. “This weekend was a terrible way to kick off the summer season.”
May is National Water Safety Month. The DPCA annually
hosts a Summer Water Safety Day with sponsor Hilton Phoenix resorts, which
opens its pools FREE to the public for the special event. This year, the event
is May 13, from 9 am-12 pm at the Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort, 11111
N. 7th St., Phoenix.
Music, mascots and entertainment will keep the event a
party, while attendees visit with community advocates from fire departments,
hospitals, YMCA, Swim Schools and more! The event will also feature CPR
demonstrations and a water rescue.
“We want swimmers of all ages to realize that while the
water is fun, we still need to respect it and take simple steps to protect
themselves and their loved ones,” says Chute. “At this event, advocates educate
the community in hopes to prevent repeat of this past weekend.”
The DPCA recommends layers of protection. This
includes adult supervision for children and that no one ever swims alone.
Fences and other barriers should be in place to limit access when children are
not expected to be in the water. Life vests should be worn in water above
the swimmer’s ability. (No floaties!) Swim lessons are recommended at any
age. And mouth-to-mouth CPR should be administered immediately if all
other layers fail.
“Let’s all work together to stop any more devastating weekends like this one,” says Chute. “We can prevent drownings.”
***
The Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona, a community
based organization comprised of parents, health and safety professionals and
business leaders, exists to provide a forum to prevent fatal and non-fatal
drownings through the promotion of education.
Media: DPCA members will be available before and
during the event for interviews, demos, etc.
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