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Lacombe aquatic staff honoured for safety programming

Nov 6, 2018 | 8:40 AM

The City of Lacombe’s Kinsmen Aquatic Centre staff received the Partners in Humanity Citation at Canadian Red Cross Water Safety Conference in Edmonton on October 3.

The Kinsmen Aquatic Centre trains over 800 individuals in various Red Cross programs yearly. These programs range from pre-school lessons, to Water Safety Instructor courses.

“Throughout the year, aquatic staff provide lessons to many school age children in Lacombe and the surrounding communities,” said Aquatics Supervisor Sheri Mitchell. “We are able to provide not only improved swimming skills, but also water safe behaviors to children that may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in swimming lessons. Swimming and water safety awareness is not only an important part of recreation, but is a vital life skill that saves lives.”

During National Lifejacket Day and Water Safety Week, the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre runs a variety of programs and activities to promote lifejacket awareness and water safety. The programs run are not only limited to the aquatic centre but often extend in to the community and schools. Staff are always willing to volunteer their time and facility space for various Red Cross meetings and courses.