The Atlanta Water Safety Coalition, in collaboration with the Atlanta City
Council, proclaims May 2024 as Water Safety Month in Atlanta. This initiative aims to raise awareness
and promote water safety practices to prevent drowning incidents in the community.
The Atlanta Water Safety Coalition, established in 2023, is dedicated to developing age-appropriate
strategies and enhancing access to swimming and water safety instruction for Atlanta's youth,
particularly individuals from Black and Brown communities who are at higher risk. The coalition is
comprised of the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation, YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Children’s
Healthcare of Atlanta, the American Red Cross, WABE and Sears Pool Management.
"More children ages 1–4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. The coalition is committed to
reducing drownings in our city by focusing on four key actions: Amplify, Teach, Safeguard, and
Respond," said Lauren Koontz, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. "Through awareness,
swim lessons, lifeguard expansion, and CPR training, we aim to drive greater visibility and elevate
preventive actions in our community."
The coalition's efforts will center on amplifying awareness of water safety, providing access to swim
lessons and water safety programs for youth and teens, and expanding lifeguard services to safeguard
individuals in aquatic environments.
"As part of Mayor Andre Dickens’ Year of the Youth initiative, it is our goal to ensure Atlanta’s youth
have all of the resources necessary to thrive. The knowledge of how to stay safe around water is crucial
and we all have a part to play in supporting the safety of our kids and teens. We champion this
proclamation with gratitude to Atlanta City Council for recognizing the importance of water safety,
awareness, and education," stated Department of Parks & Recreation Commissioner Justin Cutler.
The Atlanta Water Safety Coalition is supporting educational events in the city this summer to continue
the mission of saving kids’ lives in our community.