Media Contact: Tiffani Nichols, Scottsdale Fire Department
(480) 312-1816 office or PIO pager (602) 229-9640
For the fifth year, City of Scottsdale Mayor Mary Manross proclaims August as Drowning Impact Awareness Month. The well-known "purple ribbon" campaign began as a way to remind the community to practice water safety, and to consider the far-reaching effects of each drowning and near-drowning.
Ribbons are available free-of-charge at all Scottsdale Fire Stations and City of Scottsdale Aquatic Centers. At least 30,000 ribbons will be distributed state-wide in recognition of the effort. For a complete listing of Scottsdale Fire Station locations, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/fire/stationmap.
Additionally, the city’s Aquatics and Fire departments team up for Water Safety Day from 1:00-3:00 p.m., Aug. 6, for separate events at Eldorado, Chaparral, Cactus and McDowell Mountain Ranch pools. Water Safety Day events are free and open to the public. The lifeguards, collaborating with the Scottsdale Fire Department, will stage rescue demonstrations at all pools beginning at 2:30 p.m.
Arizona ranks second in the nation for child drownings, and summer months bring increased incidents. So far this year, there have been nine fatalities in Maricopa County. It's a tragedy that knows no bounds and it is completely preventable.
For more information about Drowning Impact Awareness Month or water safety in Scottsdale, visit www.ScottsdaleFD.com or contact Public Education Officer Lori Schmidt at (480) 312-1817.
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