Resources help you be “water smart” 

•June 5, 2024•

The American Red Cross encourages families to prepare for the summer swim season by learning to be “water smart.” Research shows that participation in formal water safety and swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% for one to four-year-olds.

“Before families head out to pools and parks, it’s important for all family members to learn and review critical water safety skills,” said Celena Sarillo, Chief Executive Officer, Red Cross of Illinois. “Knowing fundamental Red Cross water safety skills will help you feel more prepared for fun outings in, on and around the water and help save lives.” 

Each year, more than 2.5 million people learn to swim through Red Cross lifesaving aquatics programs. These programs incorporate the latest science-based curriculum and industry best practices, helping to keep individuals and families safer while enjoying water activities. Through this work, over the last century, the Red Cross has helped to reduce accidental drownings by nearly 90% nationwide. Read More

2014

Okaw Valley Middle School received a donation from the Findlay Planning Committee two weeks ago in the form of 50 white pine trees. With a $250 donation to the project from the Findlay Planning Committee and trees from Roger Kirkwood, the task was underway. The original windbreak, planted in 1943, had contracted a disease last year. With the trees literally falling over, they had to be cut down. Mike Cummins, the Okay Valley Middle School principal, was then approached by Kirkwood with a proposal on the new windbreak. Read More