ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — The St. Petersburg Fire Department collaborated with Safe Kids and several other organizations to host a water safety event at the Lake Vista Pool.

Organizers gave away life jackets, door alarms, swim vouchers and more to the community to push practicing water safety head of the holiday weekend.

“That’s ideal, that’s absolutely crucial even if your children are skilled swimmers like mine are confident in the water, but we still maintain a safety barrier around our pool to ensure they are always within view,” expressed parent Michael Schultz.

Mother Shakilya Lewis is dedicated to promoting the message of water safety within the community. Her son BJ experienced a near-drowning incident when he accidentally fell into his grandparents’ pool in 2022 and was discovered unresponsive.

“He treaded water for about 3 to 4 minutes prior to him getting tired and not being able to get back to the wall,” said Lewis.

Lewis says everything from pool fences to the free door alarms being given away at the event is a vital tool to keep your family safe. Dozens took advantage of today’s freebies.

The St. Pete Fire Rescue urges practicing water safety around all bodies of water.