Water safety urged as summer season begins

WOBURN, Mass. (AP) -- With the unofficial start of summer this weekend, the Middlesex District Attorney's Office is kicking off a water safety education campaign for parents, caretakers and children.

The "Splash into a Safe Swim Season" campaign by District Attorney Gerry Leone includes printed materials distributed to Middlesex County YMCAs, hospitals and community organizations, a public service radio campaign and partnerships with local meteorologists to share tips during their hot weather reports.

Some tips offered by the campaign include: actively supervise children at all times, stay within an arm's reach of preschool-age children, learn CPR, be alert when visiting homes with a pool, remove toys from pool after use and do not rely on air-filled or foam toys.