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Resolution Calling on Chicago to Improve Lakefront Safety
WHEREAS, Lake Michigan is Chicago's defining geographic feature - providing the means for life, industry, agriculture, recreation and the backdrop for Chicago to rise as a metropolis on the prairie; and
WHEREAS, Lake Michigan provides ample recreation opportunities and a meeting place for Chicagoans from all neighborhoods,
WHEREAS, Keeping Chicagoans and visitors safe is one ofthe most important responsibilities the City of Chicago and its sister agencies have, and we as a city enjoy a rich history of water safety programs and innovation; and
WHEREAS, Following the tragic drowning of Rogers Park teenager in July of 2018, Alderman Joseph Moore assembled the Lakefront Safety Task Force to identify how such tragedies could be avoided in the future; and
WHEREAS, This task force included a "dream team" of community advocates, government leaders, experts in public health and first responders working to identify how the City of Chicago, its sister agencies, regional partners and residents can work together to make enjoyment of our Lake Michigan lakefront safer for residents and visitors; and
WHEREAS, The following are policy recommendations the task force created toward this goal; and
WHEREAS, Chicago Park District should expand lifeguarding capacity at Chicago beaches by restoring the lifeguard hours and increasing the budget for lifeguard staffing, training and recruitment; lifeguard feeder programs, and water quality testing; and
WHEREAS, Municipalities and park districts throughout the Chicago area should use consistent language and visuals for water safety signs and educational materials including but not limited to information about dangerous currents, appropriate response for bystanders during a drowning emergency, and off-season risks like cold water shock and staying off the ice; and
WHEREAS, The City of Chicago and other government entities with jurisdiction over lakefront ac...
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