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May 21, 2026 • 12 Pages • Volume 23 • Issue 49
Celebrating 23 Years 2002 - 2026
Make Water Safety Part Of Your Memorial Day Weekend Plans
By City of Hollywood
May 21, 2026
As Memorial Day Weekend Kicks Off The Unofficial Start Of Summer, Many Families Will Head To The Beach, Pool, Or Boat To Enjoy The Long Holiday Weekend. While Spending Time In The Water Is A Great Way To Cool Off And Celebrate, It’s Also Important To Make Water Safety A Priority.
Florida continues to lead the nation in drowning deaths among children ages 1 to 4, and tragedies can happen quickly and quietly, often in the time it takes to answer a text message or step away for just a moment. Drowning is preventable, and simple precautions can save lives.
Whether you’re spending the weekend at the beach, relaxing poolside or gathering with family and friends near the water, remember to use multiple layers of protection and keep a close watch on children at all times. Learn more at: Water Smart Florida: https://www.floridahealth.gov/individual-family-health/child-infant-youth/drowning-prevention/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Know the Signs After a Water Emergency
Even after someone has been pulled from the water, complications can still occur. Inhaling water can cause breathing difficulties later, even if the person initially seems okay. If someone experiences a near-drowning incident and later develops coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, unusual tiredness or changes in behavior, seek medical attention immediately. Or call: 9-1-1.
Water Safety Tips for a Safer Summer
• Keep constant eyes on children around water. Active supervision is one of the most important safety measures.
• Designate a “Water Watcher” during gatherings or parties. Rotate the responsibility so one adult is always focused on watching the water.
• Swim in areas with lifeguards whenever possible.
• Never swim alone and always let someone know where you are.
• Secure home pools with fences, self-closing gates and alarms.
• Follow posted warning flags and “No Swimming” signs at beaches and waterways.
• Avoid distractions like phones while supervising children in or near the water.
Helpful Resources
• Explore local Learn to Swim programs in Hollywood and find discounts for kids’ lessons: https://fl-hollywood2.civicplus.com/1595/Swim-Lessons
• Download swim lesson coupons for children through Water Smart Broward Swim Coupon Program: https://watersmartbroward.org/swim-coupon/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Learn more about water safety at Water Smart Florida: https://www.floridahealth.gov/individual-family-health/child-infant-youth/drowning-prevention/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
A fun holiday weekend starts with staying safe. Taking a few extra precautions around the water can help ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable start to the summer season.
Water Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility!
