May is National Water Safety Month and summertime is almost here. As we all look forward to days by the pool, I'd like to offer an interview with Brent Berridge, owner of Houston's Pool Scouts, to discuss the importance of water safety.

Drowning is the leading cause of death in children under age 5 and the second leading cause of death in children under 14. Hope Floats has over 200 partnership locations across 31 states to fundraise for swimming lessons scholarships. Throughout Water Safety Month, Pool Scouts locations will be donating a percentage of each service to the Hope Floats Foundation to provide scholarships to children for swim lessons.

Brent can discuss:

*Keeping a watchful, undistracted eye on swimmers

*Staying in designated areas only, especially for our little swimmers

*Knowing how to quickly react if something does go wrong

*Avoid alcohol use when swimming, boating and participating in water sports or activities

*Ensuring that the perimeter around your pool is secure and up to state requirements

*The importance of a clean and well-maintained pool after a long winter