Chandler Aquatics highlights Drowning…

CHANDLER, Ariz. - This August, the City of Chandler Water You Doing campaign is recognizing Drowning Impact Awareness Month by encouraging residents to make water safety a priority through education, events and community resources.

The Water You Doing campaign is a partnership between Chandler Aquatics, Chandler Fire and Chandler Police dedicated to educating the community about the risks around water-related incidents, and the skills and techniques to prevent tragic accidents.

"Drowning is silent, devastating and preventable," said Chris Smith, Chandler Aquatics Superintendent. "Increasing awareness reducing the number of water-related risks in our community is the driving force behind the Water You Doing campaign. Through programs, classes and education, we're committed to helping everyone stay safe around water."

To help more residents gain lifesaving skills, Chandler Aquatics is offering free swim lessons through August, made possible by the Water You Doing campaign and Salt River Project (SRP). While the free lessons are currently full, affordable swim lessons are available through October.

"Everyone should know how to swim, including adults," Smith said. "It's never too late to learn skills that could save a life. That's especially important in the valley, where swim season extends well into the fall."

Residents can participate in the final Water You Doing Pop-Up Event of the season on Saturday, Aug. 15 from noon to 2 p.m. at Desert Oasis Aquatic Center, located at 1400 W. Summit Place in Chandler. The free event includes public swimming, interactive water safety activities and educational resources for the whole family.

Also, Aug. 15 is the final day for Chandler residents to enter the Pool Fence Giveaway. Three residents with in-ground pools will receive a pool fence. Proof of Chandler residency is required.

Although summer is winding down in Chandler, drowning prevention remains a year-round responsibility. Pools can pose a danger during cooler months and should always be secured with locked gates and self-latching fences. Drowning can occur in as little as one inch of water, making everyday household items such as buckets, bathtubs and pet water bowls potential hazards for young children.

"Every water-related incident impacts our community," said Smith. "Many tragedies can be prevented by following the ABCs of water safety: Always provide active adult supervision and staying within an arm's reach of children, create barriers with pool fences and locked doors, enroll in learn-to-swim classes, and use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for non-swimmers."

Registration for fall swim lessons opens Aug. 4 for Chandler residents and Aug. 7 for non-residents. Register at Chandler Recreation.

Media contact:
Malori Heppler
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
480-782-2910