Spring is definitely in the air in the Valley, and local businesses are leading the way in efforts to prevent child drownings.  Last year, 17 children drowned in the Valley of the Sun, and the work to prevent future tragedies is uniting the community.

“Diving in” to make a difference is nothing new for some local businesses.  Through strong collaboration and support, Arizona has developed innovative programs and messages, which have been key in the reduction of the child drowning rate in the Valley recent years.

The spirit of innovation and collaboration can be seen at the Valley of the Sun’s official kickoff to swimming season: Valley Toyota Dealer’s Water Safety Day, also presented by SRP Safety Connection.  Nearly 1,100 first grade students from around the Valley will attend, as part of a seven-week learning process, with curriculum lessons in the classroom.

This year, the 13th annual Water Safety Day will be on Tuesday, March 27, 2012, from 9 am to 1:30 pm, at Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Avenue, Mesa.

The effort is organized by Water Watchers at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and has grown in reputation and support to become well-known throughout the United States.  La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries will present the “Build-A-Reminder” craft activity, and Mesa Community College and Mesa Fire Department will host the effort, providing significant assistance and support.

“Through the support of our sponsors, the volunteers that local businesses provide, and the strong commitment of the college and public safety organizations involved, we are able to make a difference,” says Tiffaney Isaacson, Water Safety Coordinator for Water Watchers at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.  “We think that kind of support is really special, and the ‘good news’ business headline of the year.”