COLLIER COUNTY, Fla -- On Friday, local groups are coming together to raise awareness about childhood drownings. This, as a new bill is currently being pushed by state leaders.
Just Against Children Drowning Foundation, Inc. (JACD) and The NCH Safe & Healthy Children's Coalition of Collier County (the Coalition) will be holding the 7th Annual Twins Tot Walk Vigil to raise awareness of childhood drowning.
State leaders want to require more safety measures around swimming pools.
Childhood drowning is a huge problem in Southwest Florida and throughout our state.
Florida leads the nation in drowning deaths of kids ages one to four. The amount of children who drown each year in Florida is enough to fill three to four preschool classrooms.
An event happening today in Collier County will remember children who have lost their lives to drowning. Since 2000, we're told there have been 50 childhood drowning deaths there.
That's why right now a new bill is being pushed that would require Florida homeowners to have at least two safety measures around pools. Safety measures include fencing, pool covers, door alarms, gates or motion alarms.
This event will include a butterfly release ceremony and a 1-2 mile flameless candle beach walk to remember the children who have lost their lives to drowning.
The event is taking place at 5:00 p.m. on Vanderbilt Beach.
