City launches drowning prevention campaign to save lives

The San Juan Capistrano City Council convened recently to address critical community safety initiatives, including a proclamation designating May through August 2024 as Drowning Prevention Awareness months. Chief Shane Mull of the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) accepted the proclamation, emphasizing the alarming statistics surrounding drowning incidents, particularly among children under five. He noted that drowning remains a leading cause of death in this age group, with an average of 3,500 to 4,000 drowning fatalities annually in the U.S.

The proclamation aims to raise awareness about drowning prevention through the \"Always Watch the Water\" and \"Never Swim Alone\" campaigns. Chief Mull highlighted the importance of active adult supervision around water, the installation of safety barriers, and the necessity of swim lessons for both children and adults. He shared that in 2023, Orange County recorded 104 drowning incidents, half of which were fatal, while San Juan Capistrano reported no drownings last year, a statistic the community aims to maintain.

In addition to drowning prevention efforts, Chief Mull provided an overview of the OCFA's activities in the first quarter of 2024, reporting over 1,000 medical aid calls and various fire incidents. He also discussed the recent opening of a new helipad designed to expedite water refills for firefighting helicopters, significantly enhancing the OCFA's wildfire response capabilities.

The meeting also included public comments regarding concerns over a proposed lithium-ion battery storage facility in the area. Residents expressed apprehension about the potential risks associated with such a facility, citing recent incidents involving energy storage fires elsewhere in California. The council acknowledged these concerns and emphasized their commitment to community safety and transparency regarding new projects.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to public safety, focusing on both drowning prevention and emergency response enhancements, while also addressing community concerns about new developments.