With school out and summer underway, the Town of Cutler Bay Parks and Recreation Department is geared toward not just keeping youngsters busy for entertainment and active for fitness sake, the staff also hopes to help prevent needless tragedies.
“Our focus during the summer is our children’s summer program at Cutler Ridge Park and the Learn-to-Swim classes at Cutler Ridge Pool,” said Alan Ricke, Parks and Recreation director in a June 26 interview. “This is a very 
popular program.”
Christine Hart is the town’s aquatics coordinator and heads up the Learn-to- Swim program. She stresses the importance of making sure children know how to swim and not taking their safety for granted.
“The No. 1 cause of death for children between the age of 3 and 6 is drowning,” Hart said. “After the age of 6, I believe it’s the No. 2 cause. It’s very important, especially down here with all the pools and water we have. Unfortunately every year you hear about children who have drowned in pools or the canals, so it’s really important.”
The pool at Cutler Ridge Park is located at 10100 SW 200 St. The swimming program there is something that has been done for many years. Parents wishing to enroll their children should do so promptly, according to Hart.
“We still have morning classes available,” Hart said. “Normally we go from three years or older and up. Our 3- to 5- year-old classes are almost full for this entire summer. We have a lot of space left for six years and up. It’s reasonably priced and it’s a good program.”
Ricke pointed out an additional incentive for parents this year.
“We are providing one free two-week session for any child that has not previously taken swim lessons at the pool,” he said.
To enroll children in the Learn-to-Swim program or for more information call 305- 238-5344.
