Goodyear issues water safety reminder as summer heat starts

 With temperatures forecasted to climb this week, the city of Goodyear is launching a public safety campaign to coincide with National Water Safety Month, reminding residents that drowning is preventable.

The safety alert comes as the National Weather Service has placed the West Valley under an Extreme Heat Warning effective through 8 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters expect daytime highs to reach 107 this week, increasing the risk of heat-related illness and driving more residents to local pools.

City officials and the Goodyear Fire Department are highlighting practical measures to reduce the risk of water-related incidents, particularly in a region where residential pools are a common fixture.

"Drowning is preventable and especially in Arizona, where backyard pools are common, it is critical to take the pool safety serious," said Goodyear Fire Chief Tim Wayne. "Drownings can happen quick and are often silent, so turning your back from the pool, even for a second, can be deadly."

To combat these risks, especially during the current heatwave, the city is promoting a layered approach to water safety:

• At least one adult should be assigned to monitor children in and around water at all times.
• Homeowners are encouraged to install pool gates and child-proof safety locks on all doors leading to water.
• Residents are urged to register for swim lessons and CPR training.
• Adults are advised to wear life jackets when appropriate and avoid alcohol while supervising swimmers.

The city is currently offering swim lessons for families looking to build water safety skills. Programs are available at the Goodyear Aquatic Center and the Loma Linda Pool.

Registration and additional safety resources are available at goodyearaz.gov/aquatics. For the latest weather updates and heat safety tips, residents can visit forecast.weather.gov.