- Published: Friday, December 08, 2023 03:45 PM
SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Ram Villivalam will introduce more water safety instructions into school curriculum for youth in preschool through sixth-grade following a recent tragedy that occurred in the 8th District.
“With water safety instruction, more of our youth and families will be equipped with the tools to protect themselves and others,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “This legislation is an important step toward saving lives and ensuring better water safety education across the state.”
Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children age 5-14 after car accidents, and at age 15, drowning rates triple. For every fatal child drowning, another eight children receive emergency care for non-fatal drowning injuries.
"Today marks a turning point in our children's safety," said State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado (D-Chicago). "We promised to provide comprehensive water safety education, and we delivered. I'm thankful to Governor Pritzker for joining us in this effort by signing this legislation into law earlier today."
Villivalam’s measure seeks to prevent as many of these deaths as possible by beginning water safety instruction in preschool.