Commissioners urge swim-safety outreach after two child drownings; parks staff says free lessons available

Two child drownings in Martin County reported in local news prompted commissioners to raise swim-safety concerns during the June 17 meeting and to ask Parks & Recreation about available lessons. Commissioner Campe described recent drownings of a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old and urged increased awareness and programming to prevent future tragedies.

Parks & Recreation response: Kevin Abate (via text to Commissioner Campe and reported at the meeting) and county staff confirmed a free swim-lesson program is available for residents ages 6 months to 17 years; parent or guardian must be present for lessons, provide transportation and attend a water-safety class. The program is offered at Sailfish Splash Waterpark in Stuart and is sponsored by the Children’s Services Council, county staff said. Commissioner Campe encouraged residents to contact Parks & Recreation to confirm eligibility; he also noted private lessons exist and suggested donors could help fund expanded access.

Why it matters: Commissioners noted the common pattern that many child drownings occur in pools at properties other than the child’s home and urged neighbors with pools to check gates and latches. The board did not take formal legislative action at the meeting but requested staff follow-up and encouraged public awareness and donor-supported expansions of lessons where needed.

Next steps: Parks & Recreation will continue to manage sign-ups for the free lessons and verify eligibility; county commissioners encouraged residents to contact Parks & Recreation or their elected commissioners if they believe their family needs assistance enrolling children in lessons.