Water Safety Initiative

Choo Choo Diving & Aquatic Center, together with the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and the Hamilton County Department of Education, are teaching children in our community how to prevent drownings and save lives.

This community service project will make it possible for over 3,300 first graders in Hamilton County to receive water safety training! This is an important step in reducing the tragic impact that drownings and near drownings have on our youth and our families.

Our Water Safety Instructors, together with Sheriff's Deputies, and elementary school staff present the Red Cross Longfellow's Whale Tales Water Safety Program in the classroom. Following the presentation, the instructional team accompany the kids to the gymnasium or an assembly area where they have created a "simulated pool".

The kids have the opportunity to practice the self and buddy rescue techniques that they learned in class.  They are then given a "homework" brochure which involves the parents as they help to reinforce the day's lessons.

Important Water Safety Statistics

• Drowning is the number one cause (non automotive) of accidental death for kids ages 1 - 14

• Over 1100 kids drown each year in the United States

• An estimated 5000 kids are hospitalized due to near drowning

• Up to 20% of those who are hospitalized suffer severe and permanent disability

• 70% of all preschoolers who drown are in the care of one or both parents at the time of drowning

• It is estimated that when 2009 statistics are available, the number of drownings will have doubled

A message from Dr. Jim Scales, Hamilton County School Superintendent . . .

"Student safety is a top priority at the Hamilton County Department of Education.  As we strive to provide a safe environment for our students, the administration and staff are pleased to partner with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department and the Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center to provide our children with lifesaving water safety guidelines.

It is our expectation that the water safety information provided during this program will increase awareness of appropriate actions to take in and around water.  I encourage parents and families to take a moment to review this brochure and discuss water safety measures with your children.  Working together, we can provide the knowledge for our children to make the right decisions and stay safe!"

A message from Sheriff Jim Hamond . . .

"We at the Sheriff’s Office are proud to join efforts with Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center and Hamilton County Department of Education in promoting water safety awareness.   Most water incidents are avoidable and through the water safety education program we will save lives.

Our Message . . .

"Prepare your kids for a lifetime of fun and adventure. Give them the best chance for a happy & healthy future. Take our parent Basic Water Rescue Course and, let our Water Safety Instructors teach your children to swim!"