COLUMBUS, OH -- As sunny summer weather and the upcoming Fourth of July holiday attract larger numbers of beach-goers to Ohio State Parks, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) reminds visitors of the importance of beach safety. Ohio State Parks' SwimSafe! beach safety education program urges parents and adult guardians to "Keep an Eye on the Kids" while they are playing near and in the water.
The Swimsafe! Program, launched last year, is directed at parents and adult guardians of children who visit Ohio State Parks' beaches.
"We want people to look forward to a fun, safe day at an Ohio State Parks' beach this summer," said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. "Families can enjoy a great day of recreation and remain safe, by keeping an eye on the kids when they are near, or in the water."
Ohio State Parks offer 59 beaches on 47 inland lakes across the state in addition to 10 beaches on Lake Erie for summer recreation. Last year visitation was 3.9 million guests at state park beaches.
Park personnel have been distributing complimentary SwimSafe! visors, mini-totes and posters to children at beaches and nature centers since the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
For Further Information Contact:
Jim Henahan, Ohio State Parks
(614) 265-6549
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882