KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Local teens modeled the latest in stylish lifejackets this afternoon at a fashion show to promote water safety. This event served as the kickoff for Summer Splashtacular, a series of water safety activities across Washington state, hosted by the City of Lynnwood and the City of Seattle Parks and Recreation in cooperation with Children’s Hospital and Public Health – Seattle & King County.

“It is so important to know your surroundings when you go swimming,” says lifejacket fashion show co-emcee, Susanna Kang. In 2004, after two of her schoolmates drowned, Kang began advocating to local government, parks and healthcare groups for lifeguards at local beaches. “So many people do not seem aware of how many people drown. My friends were sad about the deaths of their friends and I wanted to take action and raise awareness.”

Summer Splashtacular events will take place at over 15 participating pools, beaches and fire districts in Washington state this Saturday, July 14, 2007. Families can participate in lifejacket fittings and fun water safety events for all ages. For more information on water safety and a list of participating pools and beaches, please visit www.metrokc.gov/health/injury/drowning.htm.

“Summer Splashtacular is a fun water safety event for families, children and all those that want to be safe and prepared when at beaches, outdoor water facilities and on open water,” said Dotty Klyce, Director of Health and Safety for the American Red Cross Serving King & Kitsap Counties.

With hotter weather drawing more people to the water, basic drowning prevention techniques – such as wearing lifejackets and only swimming at beaches with lifeguards – are essential to keeping people safe. King County suffered 31 drowning deaths in 2006, most of which could have been prevented by wearing a lifejacket. Among teens, drowning is the second leading cause of injury-related death.

Important water safety tips

• Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards.
• Always wear a lifejacket or vest when swimming or boating in lakes, rivers and the Puget Sound.
• Make sure all family members know how to swim.
• Supervise children and teens when they are in or near all types of water and keep small children within reach. Appoint sober adults to supervise children at beach or pool gatherings. Make sure supervisors are close enough to provide immediate rescue to children in need.
• Do not drink alcohol around open water.
• Learn CPR.

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