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Calvert County proclaims May National Water Safety Month; aquatics staff highlight learn-to-swim programs
Summary
The Board of County Commissioners proclaimed May 2025 National Water Safety Month and heard from aquatics staff about Red Cross learn-to-swim programming, school outreach and instructor training. Staff emphasized drowning prevention, early lessons for children and partnerships with Calvert County Public Schools.
The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed May 2025 National Water Safety Month at its May 6 meeting and heard presentations from aquatics staff about local swim lessons, instructor training and school outreach aimed at preventing drowning and increasing community water-safety skills.
Zachary Bricke, aquatics facility manager, told the board: "Water safety means more than telling children to be careful when around pools and bodies of water. It teaches them how to incorporate water related exercises and activities in their lives." Bricke said the county runs one of the largest American Red Cross learn-to-swim programs in Maryland and that staff are increasing certification courses for local instructors.
Division Chief Brandon Medea and swim instructors from the Hall Aquatic Center described a range of programs for all ages. Instructors reported offering classes that begin for infants and continue through adult lessons; one instructor said she has taught students from six months of age up to people in their 80s. Staff also described a recent program that brought fifth-graders from Plum Point Elementary to an on-site water safety day and said they have discussed expanding similar events with other elementary schools.
Bob Brann, director of parks and recreation, noted Calvert County's shoreline and community reliance on water-based recreation: "This is a community that thrives where people earn their living on the water, and they choose leisure pursuits and recreational opportunities on the water." He told the board the county's Red Cross program is the most successful community program of its kind in Maryland, in the county's view.
The proclamation text included standard language encouraging vigilance around water, observation of safety measures, and support for public education and swim lesson initiatives. Staff said swimming lessons and lifeguard training aim both to prevent accidents and to provide skills that support physical and mental health.
Commissioners did not take any regulatory actions during the proclamation; the presentation was informational and the proclamation ceremonial. Staff noted opportunities for increased school partnerships and community outreach as next steps.
