Middlesex County has been awarded a $128,800 grant by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to be used for education, training and enforcement of pool safety requirements that are intended to save lives and prevent serious injuries.
Middlesex County was one of only five state and county governments in the country to receive funds from the Pool Safely Grant Program, which is intended to help prevent pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments.
County officials said the money will be used to educate the public regarding water safety, which includes both pool and sun safety. The Middlesex County Department of Public Safety and Health will collaborate with Raritan Valley YMCA, Raritan Bay Area YMCA and other partners to implement the program.
Partners are currently planning an event for early September in conjunction with Saint Peter’s University Hospital. The event will include free skin cancer screenings. Additionally, the county will partner with the YMCA to offer free swimming lessons to the public.
“The importance of water safety cannot be overstated,” board of county commissioners Director Ronald G. Rios said. “Too many people die or suffer serious injuries in accidental drowning incidents each year, including some right here in Middlesex County. We are grateful to the Consumer Product Safety Commission for this generous Pool Safely Grant, which will enable us to share vital water safety information and teach lifesaving skills to residents of Middlesex County.”
