Elementary students from around Huntington are invited to participate in the Suffolk County Legislature’s “Be Pool Smart” poster contest.
The annual competition, which was first established in 2007, promotes pool safety by encouraging elementary students to design a poster that features tips on how to stay safe by the water.
“This is a fun way to get our youngsters thinking about a very serious safety hazard. Across America, about one in five people who die from downing are children ages 14 and under. It’s crucial that we bring awareness to this issue as we live in a place surrounded by water, and backyard pools are common.” said Legislator William “Doc” Spencer.
Each legislator will select one outstanding poster from their district to compete against the 17 other finalists. The first-place winner will have their illustration featured in the countywide annual pool safety campaign from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services and will receive a proclamation at the June 4 general meeting of the Legislature.
Rules
Each participating student should create a poster no larger than 22” X 30” with the title “Be Pool Smart.” The poster should creatively illustrate one or more safety tips to prevent accidental drowning.
Tips which can be included
Always swim with a buddy.
Never leave children of any age alone in or near the water. Make sure children under five years of age are always within “arms reach” when in or near the water.
Remove steps and take toys away from the pool area when it is not in use.
Never run by the pool.
Keep a first aid kit stocked and near the pool.
Keep a cell phone in the pool area in case of emergency.
Teach children how to dial 9-1-1 and how to get help if an emergency arises. Make sure children know their address.
Never dive in the shallow end of the pool.
Learn to swim.
Learn CPR.
Submissions should include the child’s name, age, grade, school and teacher’s name on the back of the poster.
The deadline for submission is noon April 17.
For more information, contact your Suffolk County legislator.