By City Manager Ken Striplin
Every year in the United States, an estimated 4,000 people die from unintentional drowning, an average of 11 deaths per day. Drowning also remains the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 4, a reminder of how important water safety is for every family as we head into the summer months.
As temperatures rise and families begin to spend more time around pools, lakes and beaches, taking simple steps to stay prepared can make a meaningful difference. To support this effort, the City of Santa Clarita will host Water Safety Day on Saturday, May 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, presented by Kaiser Permanente.
This free, drop-in event is designed to provide residents of all ages with practical tools and knowledge to stay safe in and around the water. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore interactive stations focused on emergency preparedness and drowning prevention, while learning simple steps that can make a meaningful difference in an emergency.
Throughout the event, guests can connect with local first responders and safety professionals who play a critical role in protecting our community. The Los Angeles County Fire Department will showcase rescue equipment, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station will provide insight on safety practices, and City lifeguards will demonstrate live water rescue techniques. These demonstrations offer a valuable look at how trained professionals respond in emergency situations.
Additional stations will feature hands-only CPR demonstrations, guidance on supervising swimmers, water safety tips and instruction on how to call 9-1-1 effectively during an emergency. Kaiser Permanente will also be on site to share information on summer sun safety, helping families stay protected both in and out of the water. As participants visit each station, they can complete a stamp card and receive a free family pass for recreational swim at the Aquatic Center.
Water Safety Day reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to providing resources that help residents make informed decisions and stay safe year-round. By taking a few simple precautions and learning essential skills, we can all play a role in preventing accidents and protecting one another. I encourage you and your family to join us for this important and engaging event. For more information, please visit SantaClarita.gov/Aquatics.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
