For the Reporter
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.
City of Bonney Lake Mayor Neil Johnson adds: “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.”
The public is invited to attend a community meeting May 22 to learn more about Swimsafe programs and promotions. The meeting is 6-8 p.m. at North Tapps Middle School, 20029 12th St. E. Lake Tapps.
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.
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.
East Pierce County Fire and Rescue also has stepped up its life jacket loaner program.
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