The 136th General Assembly of Ohio has adopted a resolution recognizing May 2026 as Water Safety Month. This initiative highlights the importance of swimming and water-based activities, which are popular in the United States and contribute positively to physical and mental health. However, the resolution also addresses the serious issue of drowning, noting that there are approximately 4,000 unintentional drownings and 8,000 nonfatal drownings each year in the country, with children aged 1 to 4 being particularly vulnerable.

The resolution emphasizes that drowning is preventable through education, supervision, and preparedness, advocating for swimming as a vital life-saving skill rather than a luxury. It calls for early childhood instruction to promote water awareness and safe swimming practices, which can significantly reduce drowning risks and protect families and communities in Ohio. The resolution concludes with a directive for the Clerk of the House to transmit copies to the news media to raise awareness about Water Safety Month.