Being surrounded by water in South Florida, there are ample opportunities to have fun this summer--but we must be educated and prepared before planning that day at the beach or the trip to the pool or lake. Knowing about water safety is essential as we head into the 2010 summer season.

According to Matthew Berman, Director of Broward County's SWIM Central, each family needs three layers of protection around the water.

"Getting children swimming lessons at the earliest possible age could mean the difference between life and death. We cannot stress enough about the three layers of protection:  constant supervision, swimming lessons, door locks and alarms along with pool fences, as well as taking CPR courses will ensure the safety of your child in and around the water," states Mr. Berman.

In partnership with SWIM Central and municipalities across South Florida, the American Red Cross wants to make Summer 2010 the safest and most fun summer in South Florida! Currently, Florida has the highest unintentional drowning rate in the entire country for children under the age of 4, according to the Center for Disease Control. Most drowning tragedies for this age group occur in swimming pools, hot tubs and spas.

Throughout South Florida, the American Red Cross works with pools in Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties to help children and adults learn water safety habits, including learning how to swim and how to protect your family while around water.  In addition, you can download two new resources from the Red Cross to prepare your family for a fun and safe summer!

* Home Pool and Hot Tub Maintenance & Safety  English - Español
* Swimming Safely in Lakes, Rivers and Streams  English - Español

In Broward County, the American Red Cross and SWIM Central offer a program called Target Zero to educate parents, guardians and other family members about the steps they can take to prevent a drowning accident. Request a presentation for your organization today!

For more information about American Red Cross learn-to-swim programs, please contact Patrick Beason at BeasonP@usa.redcross.org or by calling 954-797-3833.