The City Council of Tustin, California, has officially proclaimed May through August as Drowning Prevention Month, emphasizing the critical need for water safety awareness. The proclamation highlights alarming statistics, noting that drowning is the leading cause of death for children under five in California, with an average of 3,500 to 4,000 drowning incidents occurring annually in the United States.

During the meeting, officials stressed that drowning can happen in any body of water, including lakes, pools, and even bathtubs, often silently and in as little as two inches of water. The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) is spearheading a community outreach campaign under the theme \"Always Watch the Water and Never Swim Alone,\" aimed at educating residents on preventive measures. The initiative encourages families and community members to actively participate in drowning prevention by designating a \"water watcher\" during gatherings and ensuring constant supervision of children near water.

OCFA representatives shared personal experiences from their careers, underscoring the emotional toll of responding to drowning incidents. They introduced \"water watcher tags,\" which serve as reminders for designated supervisors to remain vigilant and avoid distractions while monitoring children in aquatic environments.

In addition to the drowning prevention proclamation, the council also addressed wildfire awareness, recognizing the heightened risk of wildfires during the summer and early autumn months. The proclamation noted that California has seen a significant decrease in wildfire acreage burned compared to previous years, yet the threat remains due to climate change and persistent drought conditions. Residents were urged to engage in public education and preparedness initiatives to mitigate wildfire risks.

The meeting concluded with a call for community involvement in both drowning prevention and wildfire awareness, reinforcing the importance of collective action in safeguarding public health and safety.