Southwest Ambulance honored for sustained efforts in water safety

MESA, Ariz. (October 13, 2011) – Southwest Ambulance's continued efforts to reduce the risk of drowning were recognized today by the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona with the Corporate Award. The Corporate Award is an annual accolade given to an organization that has committed to water safety and drowning prevention. Southwest Ambulance's dedication to supporting water safety events, participating in community education efforts and advocating for the Drowning Prevention Coalition, has made the company a long-time friend of the water safety community.

"It is important to recognize the efforts of Southwest Ambulance and its members' dedication to water safety," said Lori Schmidt, DPCA president. "Their continued work in this area saves lives and honors the loved ones that have been lost to such tragic events."

For more than 20 years, the DPCA has worked to reduce the number of child drownings and increase awareness of water safety.

"We are proud to be part of the DPCA partnership and a participant in the coalition's many initiatives. These efforts are a great addition to our annual Pool Pack program, in which we extend funding to municipal park and recreation programs to provide free or reduced-cost swimming lessons to families in need," said Rural/Metro Southwest Zone Vice President John Karolzak. "At Southwest Ambulance, we firmly believe that swimming is not only a necessary safety skill, but a fun, healthy activity that should be practiced for a lifetime. Classes, like CPR and swimming lessons, help families prepare in case of an emergency."

The Drowning Prevention Coalition, a community based organization comprised of parents, health and safety professionals and business leaders, exists to provide a forum to prevent drowning and near drowning through the promotion of education, legislative action and enhanced product safety. For more information, visit www.preventdrownings.org.

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Holly Walter

Communications & Media Manager

Southwest Ambulance

480.655.7220 Office

480.273.7111 Cell

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