Free swimming lessons are available as part of a state campaign to keep residents safe this summer.

The lessons will be given by YMCAs in a cooperative program sponsored by the state Department of Environmental Protection and the state Department of Children and Families.

"We want to make sure our state residents will be as safe as possible while enjoying water recreation activities this summer," Gov. M. Jodi Rell said.

Free swimming lessons will be given at 11 YMCAs around the state, including the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut.

The lessons also will be offered at six Connecticut state parks, including Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield. Lessons at Squantz Pond are scheduled for the afternoon and evening from July 25-29.

State parks come under the jurisdiction of the DEP.

"The DEP has been working very hard over the last few months to develop innovative ways to remind residents how important water safety is to everyone," DEP Commissioner Gina McCarthy said.

Free swimming lessons are part of a program called "Have a Safe Summer" announced recently by Rell, McCarthy, and acting DCF Commissioner Susan Hamilton.

Hamilton said the campaign, which also includes radio advertising about summer safety, will provide parents information they need to help their children have an enjoyable summer.

"This campaign," Hamilton said, "helps us fulfill a critical role: helping parents gain access to information they need to keep their children safe and well cared for."

For details on the free lessons and other summer safety information visit www.haveasafesummer.com.

To register for the free lessons, call the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut at
(203) 775-1000.

Contact Marietta Homayonpour at mhomayonpour@newstimes.com or at
(203) 731-3336.

<< Back to Archive