Florida reports 60 drownings in 2024; swimming safety is at risk
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Florida reports 60 drownings in 2024; swimming safety is at risk

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“More than ever, we want to make sure we raise awareness about water safety and drowning prevention,” said Florida’s lieutenant governor.

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At a pool in Monroe County, Florida, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez emphasized the importance of swimming safety and spoke about a new state initiative aimed at reducing childhood drownings.

“More than ever, we want to make sure we raise awareness about water safety and drowning prevention,” Nuñez said Tuesday.

In April of this year, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill allocating $500,000 for free swimming lessons for low-income families with children up to age 4.

The “Swim Lesson Voucher Program” (SB 544) requires the Florida Department of Health to establish a program to establish a network of swim instructors in each county and offer vouchers for free swim lessons to low-income families.

Nuñez, Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo and others stressed that swimming is safe, not only in pools but also at state beaches.

The Florida Panhandle recently saw a spate of deaths during red flag warnings this summer. Rip currents and violent water conditions caused seven deaths in Panama City and surrounding beaches.

There have been 60 drownings in Florida this year, Nuñez said. And drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4.

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Ana Goñi-LessanUSA TODAY Network – Florida state reporting reporter, can be reached at [email protected].

Website https://www.grupexit.cat

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