Recognizes July 2013 as "Swimming Pool Safety Month" in honor of Aubrie and Angel Castine-Smith
Impact
By designating a month specifically for swimming pool safety, HCR17 aims to emphasize the importance of water safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future. It advocates for measures such as the installation of four-sided isolation fences around pools, which significantly decrease the risk of drowning among young children by reducing unsupervised access. Furthermore, the resolution encourages communities, law enforcement, and aquatic facilities to promote and adhere to safety programs, enhancing overall public awareness and education regarding safe practices around water.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution No. 17 (HCR17) is a legislative resolution that formally recognizes July 2013 as 'Swimming Pool Safety Month' in Louisiana, honoring the memory of twin sisters Aubrie and Angel Castine-Smith, who tragically lost their lives to a drowning accident in 2012. The resolution highlights the critical issue of drowning, which ranks as the fifth leading cause of unintentional deaths in the United States, particularly affecting children aged 14 or younger. The resolution aims to raise awareness around drowning risks and promote water safety education.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HCR17 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, as it addresses a serious public safety issue and recognizes the need for greater emphasis on drowning prevention. This bill reflects a proactive effort from the legislature to foster a culture of safety in aquatic environments. Legislators and community members expressed support for the recognition of Swimming Pool Safety Month, viewing it as a vital step in preventing future tragedies and protecting families, particularly children.
Contention
While the resolution is largely supported, the approach to implementing water safety laws can vary by community, and concerns may arise regarding the effectiveness of awareness campaigns. Some stakeholders might urge for more comprehensive laws or regulations surrounding pool safety, indicating that merely recognizing a month for safety may not suffice to change behaviors or tackle the underlying issues contributing to drownings. The discussions reveal a call for ongoing dialogue and collaborative efforts to enhance protection measures and ensure the safety of children in aquatic settings.
Urges and requests BESE to recognize and include increased per pupil funding as part of FY 2013-2014 base per pupil funding and to maintain at least that combined per pupil amount for FY 2014-2015 MFP