Governor Ron DeSantis has proclaimed May as Water Safety Month. Water Safety Month in Florida is an opportunity to promote water safety and provide education on prevention of recreational water-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.  

Florida is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors to our state. Residents and tourists alike enjoy our state’s natural water resources and man-made recreational water facilities. Swimming and aquatic-related activities play a vital role in good physical and mental health and enhance the quality of life for all Floridians and visitors.

“It is important for everyone including children, parents, and caregivers to be aware of water safety rules and programs to prevent drownings and recreational water-related injuries” said Sandon S. Speedling, MHS, CPM, CPH, Administrator and Health Officer, DOH-Bay.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ten people die from unintentional drownings every day with about one in five being children 14 and younger.

Basic Water Safety Tips

• The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. This includes both adults and children
• Never leave children or vulnerable adults unattended
• Barriers should be installed when a child or vulnerable adult has uninterrupted access to a body of water
• Everyone especially caregivers should learn CPR and have safety equipment such as emergency flotation devices
  

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About the Florida Department of Health 

The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.