Dunedin proclaims May 2025 as Water Safety Month to promote aquatic safety

During the recent City Commission Workshop held on May 7, 2025, in Dunedin, Florida, officials emphasized the critical importance of water safety as they proclaimed May 2025 as Water Safety Month. Commissioner Steven Sandbergen led the discussion, highlighting the city's commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors around water, a vital aspect of life in this coastal community.

The proclamation underscored alarming statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which report approximately 4,000 fatal drownings annually in the United States, with children aged 1 to 4 being particularly vulnerable. Sandbergen stressed the need for comprehensive water safety education for all community members, including children, parents, and caregivers. He outlined essential safety measures, such as adult supervision of children, swimming lessons, and the installation of barriers to prevent access to water.

Alicia Castro Cohn, the program coordinator at the Highlander Pool, further elaborated on the city's initiatives to promote water safety. She reported that Dunedin has been proactive in educating the community through various outreach programs, including water safety pop-ups in local parks and partnerships with organizations like BayCare to provide swim lessons. This year alone, over 1,700 children have benefited from swim instruction, with additional programs aimed at teaching students at local elementary schools.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of vigilance during family gatherings, where drownings often occur. Cohn introduced the concept of a "water watcher badge," which designates an adult responsible for monitoring children in the water, free from distractions.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from city officials to prioritize water safety, recognizing its significance in preventing tragedies and enhancing the quality of life for Dunedin's residents. As the community prepares for the summer season, the initiatives discussed aim to foster a culture of safety and awareness around water activities.