Declare Water Safety Month

Assembly Resolution No. 653 BY: M. of A. Byrne MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2017 as Water Safety Awareness Month in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official months that are set aside to increase awareness of issues that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Water is a critical resource that is essential for all forms of life and for a broad range of economic and social activities; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2017, as Water Safety Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Water Safety Awareness Month; and WHEREAS, Water Safety Awareness Month is an opportunity to highlight the importance of safety precautions and sensible behavior when spending time in the water; whether it is home pools and spas, to waterparks and resorts, to public swimming and water recreation facilities; and WHEREAS, Water Safety Awareness Month will be recognized through educational programs, public service announcements, dealer and business promotions and the distribution of water-safety-themed materials; and WHEREAS, Swimming and other aquatic-related activities are enjoyable for people of all ages, offering great health, fitness and socialization benefits; and WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 people die from unintentional drownings every day; about one in five people who die from drowning are children aged 14 and younger; and WHEREAS, Before anyone gets in the water, it is imperative they take the time to educate themselves on proper safe water practices, such as: swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards, always swim with a buddy, if you go boating wear a life jacket, install and use barriers around your home pool or hot tub, actively supervise children whenever around the water, always stay within arm's reach of young children and avoid distractions, reach or throw aid to distressed swimmers, and keep toys not in use away from the pool and out of sight; and WHEREAS, Trained lifeguards, fire department personnel, emergency medical professionals and educated parents all play a vital role in saving lives; and WHEREAS, Basic life-saving skills, education on water safety and the use of appropriate equipment are essential to prevent drowning and other water-related injuries; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body reaffirms its commitment to fostering continuing attention to water safety in New York State, and encourages all New Yorkers to participate in National Water Safety Awareness Month; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2017, as Water Safety Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.