Stephens County citizens welcome at Habersham’s inaugural Swim Safety Day

Following the loss of a local youth who drowned while swimming with friends and family at Lake Russell earlier this summer, Habersham County officials have taken steps to make water safety a priority. 

 The Habersham County Parks and Recreation staff, Habersham County Commissioner Bruce Palmer, and local resident Jim Butterworth have worked to gather donations and organize the county’s inaugural Swim Safely Day to provide water safety training for citizens.

 Swim Safely Day will be hosted in partnership with Piedmont University’s Swim Team Program and Katy Ralston, natatorium director for Talullah Falls School, who, with some of her staff, will be assisting with the water safety training section of the day. The curriculum is backed by the American Red Cross.

The free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 19, at the Habersham County Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center, 120 Paul Franklin Road in Clarkesville, and will feature interactive workshops, demonstrations, and activities. 

WNEG News spoke with Habersham Public Information Officer Rob Moore, verifying that Stephens County citizens are invited to participate in the Swim Safety Day along with Habersham residents. 

“This initiative is aimed at promoting water safety awareness and empowering families in our community with life-saving skills,” said Habersham County Parks and Recreation Director Brooke Whitmire. “Through this event, we aim to prevent water-related accidents and foster a culture of safety among both children and parents.”

Water safety programs will begin in the pools area at the top of each hour: 10a.m, 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.,m.,, and the last will start at 2 p.m., with each session lasting about 90 minutes. Those who complete a session will receive a free lifejacket.

“We believe access to safety items upon completion of the program is crucial in reinforcing the water safety education received during the event,” Whitmire said. “These safety items will serve as practical resources that participants can utilize to ensure their continued safety in and around water.”

Whitmire stresses the event is designed for everyone, from those who cannot swim to those who swim daily.

“Even if you know how to swim, it is still important that you know water safety,” Whitmire said. “Whether your lifestyle involves hanging out by the pool or visiting the lake on weekends, these activities will equip you with valuable knowledge and skills to navigate the water confidently.”

Those attending should bring a swimsuit and towel.

Advance registration is preferred but not required. Register at habershamrecreation.com. Click Programs and filter for Community Program.