NEW CITY, NY — With summer in full swing and families enjoying more time in and around pools, lakes, and other bodies of water, the Rockland County Department of Health is reminding residents that drowning can happen quickly and unexpectedly — to anyone, at any time.

To help prevent drowning deaths, injuries, and long-term disabilities from near-drowning incidents, the Department is urging residents to follow key water safety precautions.

Top Water Safety Tips from the Rockland County Department of Health:

1. Learn Basic Swimming and Water Safety Skills
Everyone should know how to swim. Contact your town’s recreation department, local swim schools, the American Red Cross, Rockland County YMCA, JCC Rockland, or Rockland Community College for swim lessons.

Reminder: No child is “drown-proof,” even after swim lessons. Adult supervision is always required.

2. Learn CPR
CPR can save lives in the critical minutes before emergency responders arrive. For local training, call Rockland County Emergency Medical Services at (845) 364-8923.

3. Enclose Pools with Fencing
All residential pools should be enclosed with barriers that meet New York State safety regulations. Visit https://dos.ny.gov/pool-safety-information and check with your municipality for local codes.

4. Remove Toys from Pool Areas When Not in Use
Toys left near pools may attract children, increasing the risk of accidental falls or drowning.

5. Use Life Jackets
Children and weaker swimmers should always wear life jackets near natural bodies of water. Life jackets are essential for boating safety and should not be replaced by foam or air-filled toys, which are not safety devices.

6. Supervise Closely — Always
Always designate a responsible, undistracted adult to supervise children near water — even with lifeguards present. Avoid distractions like phones, alcohol, or recreational drugs. Lock pool access doors after swimming and always ask about water hazards when visiting other homes.

7. Follow the Buddy System
Never swim alone. Choose locations with lifeguards when possible and keep a cell phone, emergency contacts, CPR instructions, and rescue gear nearby for home pools.

Important Reminder: Backyard Pool Rentals Are Illegal

Renting out residential backyard pools in Rockland County is against the law and poses serious safety and health risks. These pools are not regulated by health authorities, making them unsafe for public use.

Violations are subject to fines of up to $2,000 per day per offense. To report illegal pool rentals, contact the Rockland County Department of Health.

For additional tips and safety information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at cdc.gov.

Senator Bill Weber Honors Hospital Corpsman First Class Andrew V. Velikic with State Senate Proclamation

Nanuet, NY — In a heartfelt ceremony held at his district office, New York State Senator Bill Weber formally presented a New York State Senate Proclamation to Hospital Corpsman First Class (FMF/SW/AW/IW/PJ) Andrew V. Velikic in recognition of his outstanding and courageous service to the United States of America.

A proud graduate of Clarkstown High School South, HM1 Velikic has exemplified heroism, leadership, and dedication since enlisting in the United States Navy in 2011. His decorated military career includes combat medical service in Afghanistan, where he provided lifesaving care under fire, and key leadership roles aboard the USS Boxer during a successful Western Pacific deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

In 2024, HM1 Velikic earned two of the Navy’s highest distinctions:

• Pacific Fleet Sea Sailor of the Year

• Fleet Marine Force (Senior) Independent Duty Corpsman of the Year

“Hospital Corpsman First Class Velikic has served our country with unmatched professionalism and bravery,” said Senator Weber (R-38). “It was my distinct honor to recognize his service with a New York State Senate proclamation.”

Senator Weber, who represents Rockland County and parts of Orange County, has long been an advocate for veterans, military families, and public servants. He regularly hosts Veterans Advisory Council meetings and recently celebrated his third annual Veterans Appreciation Reception last month.

The ceremony was attended by Andrew Velikic’s family, who joined Senator Weber in honoring his extraordinary achievements and commitment to service.