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Winter Springs offers free alarms to combat Florida’s high child drowning rates

Program launched in partnership with The Wesley Seth Foundation aims to add another layer of protection for families

Sounding the alarm: Family pushes for water safety as deputies find body of missing 7-year-old boy Door alarms (WFTV Staff/WFTV)

WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. — The Winter Springs Police Department is collaborating with The Wesley Seth Foundation to offer free door and window alarms to residents, aiming to help prevent childhood drownings.

Police said Florida has the highest drowning rate in the nation for children younger than 9, making water safety a critical issue for families.

Since pools, lakes, rivers, and other waterways are widespread in Florida, officials noted that alarms can add an extra layer of safety when used alongside adult supervision, swim lessons, and effective pool barriers.

Residents can collect a free alarm at the Winter Springs Police Department headquarters, located at 300 N. Moss Road, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Monday to Friday, while supplies last.

To receive an alarm, residents must complete and sign a form before pickup. The form is available through a link posted by the city and police department.

Police said the program is designed to help improve safety and reduce the risk of childhood drownings in the community.

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Jake Jordan

Jake Jordan, WFTV.com

Jake Jordan is a UCF Radio and Television alum on the WFTV Content Center Team. He hosts podcasts and live shows, and previously worked as a producer, reporter, and anchor on Orlando's Morning News with Scott Anez.

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