History

The 2020 Water Safety Council of Fresno County educational campaign is called the Backgrounder Tour — Then and Now. Its roots are from a tour in 1990 for the media of our area that showcased locations where drownings happen every year like canals, rivers, lakes, and backyard swimming pools. This year we will review what happened in 1990 and show the progress and programs in place today to address drowning injuries.

Welcome

On behalf of the entire Water Safety Council of Fresno County, I would like to welcome you to Backgrounder Tour — Then and Now. This event signals the beginning of the water play season in our community. During the summer the number of water related injuries reach their peak, yet the community should be aware that injuries happen all year long.

Problem

In Fresno County, water play is enjoyed in our lakes, rivers, canals and backyard swimming pools. With the our warm climate and easy access to water, water play is a leading outdoor activity in Fresno County. Unfortunately, 20-30 people die or have brain injuries each year to water related preventable injuries with about half those being under 18 years.

Progress

Since the formation of the Water Safety Task Force in 1982 which later became a the non-profit Water Safety Council of Fresno County, with the official backing of the City Council and the Board of Supervisors, our Council members have worked to increase the awareness of the community of dangers involved in water play and how tragedies can be prevented. We continue to alert the public about canals and why children should not be allowed to play around them. Our Council promotes a school program that teaches young children how to respect the water, avoid dangerous situations and the importance of learning to swim. The Water Safety Council reaches out through all forms of the communication to educate the public with an important water safety message.

Thank you

Your participation, by reading our public service message, demonstrates your interest and concern for water safety and the prevention of water related injuries to our community. We appreciate the opportunity to provide you with background information, which may help you in your education and information efforts.

We thank you for participating in The Backgrounder Tour —Then and Now and helping in the effort to save lives.