April first is the start of Drowning Awareness and Prevention Month in Palm Beach County.
The YMCA of Southern Palm Beach County along with Drowning Prevention Coalition of Palm Beach County kicked off the month by honoring three lifeguards and talking about the program's importance.
The lifeguards were working at the Juno Pier when they saw a family whisked away by a rip current. The men jumped into action and saved the family of seven, all traveling to Palm Beach County from Connecticut.
Chasity Prescott says a few years ago her 18-month-old daughter nearly drowned. She was found unresponsive in a pool before being brought back to life.
On Thursday, she encouraged parents to educate themselves and to sign their children up for swim lessons.
"For the six days that she was in the hospital, it was a little over $150,000 and I tell people that it's much cheaper to get your child swim lessons."
Starting April first parents can sign up for free or reduced swim lesson vouchers. Click here for the application.
Also download the free "SafeMap" app to find where the nearest swim lessons, car seat install, helmet fitting and pill drop off station is.
