Atlanta Water Safety Coalition and Atlanta City Council Join Forces to Proclaim
May 2024 as Water Safety Month in Atlanta
ATLANTA (May 6, 2024) – The Atlanta Water Safety Coalition, in collaboration with the Atlanta City Council, proclaims May 2024 as Water Safety Month in Atlanta. This initiative aims to raise awareness and promote water safety practices to prevent drowning incidents in the community.
The Atlanta Water Safety Coalition, established in 2023, is dedicated to developing age-appropriate strategies and enhancing access to swimming and water safety instruction for Atlanta's youth, particularly individuals from Black and Brown communities who are at higher risk. The coalition is comprised of the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation, YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the American Red Cross, WABE and Sears Pool Management.
"More children ages 1–4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. The coalition is committed to reducing drownings in our city by focusing on four key actions: Amplify, Teach, Safeguard, and Respond," said Lauren Koontz, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. "Through awareness, swim lessons, lifeguard expansion, and CPR training, we aim to drive greater visibility and elevate preventive actions in our community."
The coalition's efforts will center on amplifying awareness of water safety, providing access to swim lessons and water safety programs for youth and teens, and expanding lifeguard services to safeguard individuals in aquatic environments.
"As part of Mayor Andre Dickens’ Year of the Youth initiative, it is our goal to ensure Atlanta’s youth have all of the resources necessary to thrive. The knowledge of how to stay safe around water is crucial and we all have a part to play in supporting the safety of our kids and teens. We champion this proclamation with gratitude to Atlanta City Council for recognizing the importance of water safety, awareness, and education," stated Department of Parks & Recreation Commissioner Justin Cutler.
The Atlanta Water Safety Coalition is supporting educational events in the city this summer to continue the mission of saving kids’ lives in our community.
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About the YMCA of Metro Atlanta
For more than 165 years, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta has been impacting lives and strengthening communities. As Atlanta has grown, the Y has also evolved to meet the changing needs of our community. Well-thought-out planning, while engaging stakeholders at various levels, provides the backdrop for sustainable change and positive impact at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. By providing impactful services and support networks, and building bridges between people from all backgrounds, the Y has maintained its relevance, helping to create stronger, more cohesive communities for all. https://ymcaatlanta.org/
About Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
As the only freestanding pediatric healthcare system in Georgia, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is the trusted leader in caring for kids. The not-for-profit organization’s mission is to make kids better today and healthier tomorrow through more than 60 pediatric specialties and programs, top healthcare professionals, and leading research and technology. Children’s is one of the largest pediatric clinical care providers in the country, managing more than one million patient visits annually at three hospitals, Marcus Autism Center, the Center for Advanced Pediatrics, urgent care centers and neighborhood locations. Consistently ranked among the top children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has impacted the lives of kids in Georgia, across the United States and around the world for more than 100 years thanks to generous support from the community.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross
About the City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation
The City of Atlanta is one of the fastest growing cities in the US with an impressive population of over 500,000! Rich in historic heritage, artistic culture and southern charm, the city boasts a notable roster of sustainable parklands, nature preserves and greenspaces. The Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation is committed to building strong communities and facilitating memorable experiences through safe, exceptional parks and programs. Known for its premiere regional parks, Atlanta is the international city of choice for entertainment and booming business! Under the leadership of Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta has fast become a global beacon of realized dreams, worthy of high acclaim. #MOVINGATLANTAFORWARD