(Fresno, California) – To kick off Memorial Day weekend and summer vacation, Valley Children’s and Safe Kids Central California held a safety fair to teach safety tips around water and other potential hazards. More than 2,500 first- and second-graders from throughout the Valley attended Friday’s event called “May Day! May Day! Have a Safe and Healthy Summer!” Local law enforcement agencies and other first-responders – along with Valley Children’s doctors, nurses and staff – set up more than 60 interactive teaching exhibits, including a live water safety demonstration at the ballpark’s pool, a U.S. Coast Guard boat and booths featuring canal, car, fire and street safety.
During the event, Valley Children’s also released two key components of its newly expanded water safety program – a new book called “George Makes a Splash!” and billboards now up in the Fresno area.
“George Makes a Splash!” tells the story of how Valley Children’s beloved mascot, George the Giraffe, learns to be safe around water. The book also highlights the importance of water safety. Outfront Media donated two public service announcement (PSA) billboards in Fresno to help raise awareness about the latest book. During Friday’s news conference, a check was presented to the City of Fresno and the City of Kerman to pay for swimming lessons for children from low-income families.