Assembly Resolution No. 653

BY: M. of A. Byrne

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
June 2017 as Water Safety Awareness Month in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official months that are set aside to increase awareness of issues that
affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Water is a critical resource that is essential for all
forms of life and for a broad range of economic and social activities;
and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2017, as Water Safety
Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Water Safety Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Water Safety Awareness Month is an opportunity to highlight
the importance of safety precautions and sensible behavior when spending
time in the water; whether it is home pools and spas, to waterparks and
resorts, to public swimming and water recreation facilities; and

WHEREAS, Water Safety Awareness Month will be recognized through
educational programs, public service announcements, dealer and business
promotions and the distribution of water-safety-themed materials; and

WHEREAS, Swimming and other aquatic-related activities are enjoyable
for people of all ages, offering great health, fitness and socialization
benefits; and

WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 10 people die from unintentional drownings every day; about
one in five people who die from drowning are children aged 14 and
younger; and

WHEREAS, Before anyone gets in the water, it is imperative they take
the time to educate themselves on proper safe water practices, such as:
swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards, always swim with a
buddy, if you go boating wear a life jacket, install and use barriers
around your home pool or hot tub, actively supervise children whenever
around the water, always stay within arm's reach of young children and
avoid distractions, reach or throw aid to distressed swimmers, and keep
toys not in use away from the pool and out of sight; and

WHEREAS, Trained lifeguards, fire department personnel, emergency
medical professionals and educated parents all play a vital role in
saving lives; and

WHEREAS, Basic life-saving skills, education on water safety and the
use of appropriate equipment are essential to prevent drowning and other
water-related injuries; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body reaffirms its commitment to fostering
continuing attention to water safety in New York State, and encourages
all New Yorkers to participate in National Water Safety Awareness Month;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2017, as Water
Safety Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.