Lake Tapps Community, Cascade Team Up to Promote Swimsafe

With temperatures rising and beaches filling up, the Lake Tapps community and Cascade Water Alliance are taking steps to help swimmers and boaters who enjoy recreation on Lake Tapps and other area waterways stay safe this summer.

“We remember all of those who died tragically over the years at Lake Tapps. Unfortunately, it is a rare occurrence for a year to go by without at least one drowning at the lake,” Pierce County Council member Dan Roach said.

“We take safety issues seriously and expect improvements made at our parks will enhance safety as well as improve park users’ experiences while visiting Allan Yorke Park. Swim safe!” added City of Bonney Lake Mayor Neil Johnson.

The public is invited to attend a community meeting to learn more about Swimsafe programs and promotions. The meeting is sponsored by the City of Bonney Lake, Pierce County, East Pierce County Fire and Rescue, Bonney Lake Police Department, Sumner School District, Dieringer School District and Cascade Water Alliance.

Swimsafe Community Meeting

Wednesday, May 22 from 6 to 8 p.m.

North Tapps Middle School

20029 12th Street E.

These agencies have been meeting regularly to develop strategies and a community education program designed to promote water safety.

“As owner of Lake Tapps, it’s an honor to work with the different agencies that serve the communities around the lake. Together, we strive to keep the Lake Tapps area clean, healthy and safe. Cascade is proud to help promote Swimsafe. We urge residents and visitors to enjoy the lake safely,” said John Marchione, Cascade board chair and City of Redmond mayor.

This summer, Bonney Lake police officers will conduct safety ramp inspections, patrol the waters, and provide a water safety course to the kids in the Sumner and Dieringer School Districts. Pierce County has dedicated a memorial to those lost on the lake. And, East Pierce County Fire and Rescue have stepped up their life jacket loaner program.

Additionally, seventh grade students at North Tapps Middle School explored various measures to improve water safety on Lake Tapps this semester and came up with their own ideas for Allan Yorke Park, which they presented to Mayor Johnson in April. He gave the go-ahead to the students and the memorial should be up by Memorial Day.

Learn more about Swimsafe programs and promotions at a community meeting on May 22, or by visiting these websites: City of Bonney Lake, Pierce County, Cascade Water Alliance, Dieringer School District, or Sumner School District.

Information courtesy of Pierce County.