City of Plantation declares May as Water Safety Month and Lung Cancer Action Week

The Plantation City Council meeting on May 7, 2025, spotlighted critical health and safety initiatives, declaring May as Water Safety Month and recognizing May 24 as Water Safety Day. Mayor Nick Sotol emphasized the importance of water safety, particularly for children, as accidental drownings remain a leading cause of unintentional death.

Chris Cooksey, the superintendent of aquatics and racket sports, passionately advocated for water safety education, highlighting the need for proper supervision, swimming lessons, and emergency preparedness. “Drowning can happen quickly and silently,” he warned, stressing that it is the number one cause of death for children ages 1 to 4. The upcoming Water Safety Day event aims to educate the community through free swim lessons, demonstrations, and activities, reinforcing the city’s commitment to becoming a water-smart community.

In addition to water safety, the council proclaimed the second week of May as Lung Cancer Action Week. Michael Garcia, an ambassador for the American Lung Association, shared alarming statistics about lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. He urged residents to prioritize early detection and screening, noting that many diagnosed have never smoked. “No one deserves lung cancer,” he stated, emphasizing the need for awareness and support for research funding.

The meeting also recognized the importance of character education, proclaiming May 8 as Character Education Day. The council honored students and staff from local schools for exemplifying positive character traits, promoting a culture of cooperation, responsibility, and respect within the community.

These proclamations reflect Plantation's proactive approach to public health and community values, aiming to foster a safer and more informed environment for all residents.