According to the Ocala Star Banner, “In recent years, the average number of accidental drownings of people of all ages in Marion County has doubled… most accidental drownings occur in the family pool due to easy access during an unsupervised moment.”

The YMCA, Ocala Parks and Rec and Fire Rescue are the go to resources for water safety and education for Marion County. Tomorrow from 10a-1p, the Y and Ocala Parks and Rec will be teaming up for a morning of open swim and exciting demonstrations at the Hampton Aquatic Center. After you get inspired by the demonstrations, come on down to Paddock Mall, May 17th 10a-3p, for a chance to win FREE swim lessons! The dynamic duo Ocala Fire and Rescue and Marion County Fire and Rescue will show us the ropes, matching people up with mannequins to learn hands-only CPR for FREE.

Marion County Fire Rescue wrote a great article in the County Connection this month that you don’t want to miss. Learn about the 3 P’s of water safety: Prepare, Protect, and Prevent so you can reduce this staggering statistic: “in Florida alone enough children under the age of 5 drown each year to fill three to four pre-school classrooms”.

If you can’t attend the events this month, just give 2-1-1 a call. We can help you find CPR classes, swimming lessons, swimming safety education, lifeguard training and more!