The City of Allentown Parks & Recreation Department is presenting a free fall water safety event for Allentown families at William Allen High School.

It will take place at the school swimming pool on Saturday, November 13 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

In collaboration with the Parkland Aquatic Club, this event aims to address the need for educational programs to reduce the incidence of drowning in the community by teaching children and their families how to stay safe in and around all types of water. This event features activities for various ages and different swimming skill levels.  The event stresses the importance of learning the basics of water safety, teaches the proper use of water safety equipment, the importance of personal flotation devices, and that learning to swim is the best safeguard against water-related injuries and drowning.

Pre-Registration for this event is required. Registration can be completed online at www.allentownparksandrec.com.

“It is likely that a significant portion of our city residents cannot swim,” said Mayor Ray O’Connell.  “According to statistics from the CDC and the USA Swimming Foundation, 70% of African American children and 60% of Hispanic/Latino children cannot swim. We need a huge reduction in those numbers.”

Participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88%.

Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children under the age of 4.

For more information on events and to register for programs visit  www.allentownparksandrec.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at Allentown PA Parks & Recreation.

Information provided to TVL by:
Mike Moore
Communications Manager
Mayor’s Office
435 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
Mike.Moore@allentownpa.gov
http://www.AllentownPA.gov

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