WHEREAS, citizens of Virginia recognize the role that swimming and aquatic-related activities contribute to good physical and mental health and enhance the quality of life for all people; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of Virginia understand the essential role that increasing public awareness of Water Safety plays in preventing drowning and recreational water-related injuries; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of Virginia recognize and appreciate the contributions made by the National Water Safety Month Coalition in developing safe swimming facilities, aquatic programs, home pools and spas, and related activities, whose efforts provide safe and healthy places to recreate, learn and grow, build self-esteem, confidence and sense of self-worth, contributing to the overall quality of life in our community; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of Virginia commend ongoing efforts and commitments to educate the public on pool and spa safety issues, as well as the initiatives executed by the pool, spa, waterpark, recreation and parks industries; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of Virginia understand the vital importance of communicating water safety rules and promoting water safety programs to families and individuals of all ages, including owners of private pools, users of public swimming facilities, and visitors to waterparks; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize May 2026, as NATIONAL WATER SAFETY MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.