(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — To reduce the risk of children and teens drowning this summer, several local emergency agencies, boat clubs and marinas are participating in a program that allows parents to borrow life jackets for free.
The Palatine Fire Department is just one of several local agencies working with the Boat U.S. Foundation to lend out life jackets that fit children and teens who weigh up to 90 pounds.
Palatine Deputy Fire Chief Anthony Lavacchi says families that don't have their own life jackets should consider borrowing some if they plan to spend time at or near any body of water.
"According to the CDC., more children ages 1 to 4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury/death for children ages 5 to 14, and every year in the United States there are more than 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths," Lavacchi said.
"Water is dangerous for children, and that's all types of water from open bodies of water like lakes and the ocean to backyard bodies of water. Pools, kiddie pools, hot tubs, if you're at a water park, and local ponds and things of that nature."
There are various locations in the Chicago-area where parents can borrow life jackets for their children for free. Find a location near you on the Boat U.S. Foundation website.
Jackets can be borrowed for the day or the weekend. A staff member will make sure your child gets the appropriate sized life jacket.
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