Feature Story

April 2015

National Water Safety Month Kicks Off May 1

With the summer swimming season nearly here, four leading aquatics and related industry organizations are kicking off a month-long campaign to encourage safer water practices. This May, National Water Safety Month will be celebrated for the seventh year. In 2014, the awareness campaign received Governor's Proclamations in all 50 states, recognizing the vital importance of public education regarding safer practices for kids and adults in and around the water.

The National Water Safety Month campaign is a joint effort of the American Red Cross, The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, the National Recreation and Park Association and the World Waterpark Association. The event will be celebrated by these organizations and thousands of aquatic facilities and professionals through educational programs, public service announcements, governmental proclamations, dealer and aquatics business promotions and the distribution of water-safety-themed materials, aimed primarily at the public and designed to help prevent drowning and water-related illness and injuries.

"Understanding the risks associated with being in and around the water and the steps parents and children should take—from learning to swim to learning CPR to knowing the five steps of water competency—is crucial. National Water Safety Month helps communicate this important message," said Nichole Steffens, aquatic product manager, American Red Cross.

"The safe use of pools, spas and other recreational water facilities is a priority for everyone, from companies that build and service pools to facility management to parents and individuals who enjoy the benefits of aquatic activities," said APSP President and CEO Rich Gottwalsd. "The combined efforts of the four sponsoring organizations, along with assistance from other agencies, serves to focus attention on the importance of water safety for all stakeholders, with residual value that will extend well beyond National Water Safety Month."

"We are pleased to partner on National Water Safety Month so that more people can become familiar with safe swimming practices," said Barbara Tulipane, president and CEO of the NRPA. "Public park and recreation departments that provide aquatic opportunities strive to promote and encourage safe swimming practices. These public facilities exist all across the country and can reach a wide audience with important messages of water safety."

Learn more and get involved at www.nationalwatersafetymonth.org.