Click HERE to watch the Safety Conference
July 2nd, 2019– Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter, Town officials and lifeguards came together at Roberto Clemente Pool Tuesday to remind residents of key pool and beach safety tips as residents head to the water to enjoy the extended July 4th holiday weekend.
Joining Supervisor Carpenter were Councilwoman Mary Kate Mullen; DPW, Parks Recreation and Cultural Affairs Commissioner Tom Owens; Deputy Commissioner Dierdre Whalberg; Dan Walsh, Senior Chief Lifeguard for Town of Islip bay beaches and pools and Michelle Wyeth, Chief Lifeguard for Roberto Clemente Pool.
All Town pools opened for the 2019 season Saturday, June 29th–a day earlier than in previous years.
"In just a few days, thousands of residents will flock to bay beaches, ocean beaches and swimming pools to enjoy the long 4th of July holiday weekend. We don’t want anyone to become a statistic," said Supervisor Angie Carpenter.
Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death among children ages 1-4 years old. According to new data released by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, fatal child drownings in the United States are on the rise, with an average of 363–nearly one per day-pool or spa-related fatal drownings involving children younger than 15-years old each year. From 2016 through 2018, an average of 6,600 children were treated in hospital emergency rooms for nonfatal drowning injuries in pools or spas each year.
"As the holiday approaches, remember to follow 6 important steps while spending time in and around the water," said Councilwoman Mullen.
1. Teach your children how to swim.
2. Never leave a child unattended.
3. Teach children to stay away from drains.
4. Ask about drain covers.
5. Install proper barriers.
6. Learn CPR.
And, take the Pool Safety Pledge:
Designate a water watcher every single time children in your care are near the water. Make sure your kids know how to swim. As a parent or guardian, learn CPR. Always remove portable pool ladders when not in use. Ensure all permanent pools have a proper fence and gate and safe drain covers.