Georgia DNR’s Statewide Water Safety Initiative Receives Major Boost from Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites

ATLANTA, GA

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is proud to announce the revitalization of SPLASH, Georgia’s statewide water safety initiative focused on reducing water-related injuries and fatalities through education, prevention, partnerships, and public outreach. The revitalized SPLASH initiative aims to reestablish the program as a coordinated, statewide, partnership-driven effort dedicated to promoting water safety awareness and saving lives across Georgia.

 

Building on the work already underway, the revitalization effort is receiving a significant boost through a statewide partnership with Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites. The organization has donated over $11,000 to purchase 470 life jackets, fully restocking all 44 DNR-managed Life Jacket Loaner Kiosks across Georgia. This generous contribution will help ensure visitors have greater access to properly fitted life jackets while enjoying the state's waterways.

 

“At Friends, we believe everyone should be able to enjoy Georgia’s waters safely. Supporting this effort is a natural extension of our mission to protect and enhance the outdoor experiences people love,” stated Damon Kirkpatrick, President and Chief Executive Officer of Friends of Georgia State Parks ad Historic Sites, Inc. 

 

“We are grateful to Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites for their generous donation of life jackets to support the revitalization of the SPLASH initiative. This gift will help restock our Life Jacket Loaner Kiosks, increasing access to properly fitted life jackets for families and visitors across Georgia,” said Walter Rabon, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. “Through partnerships like this, we are strengthening water safety and helping more people enjoy Georgia's waterways safely.”

 

DNR has reengaged and strengthened partnerships with organizations committed to water safety and drowning prevention. For more information about SPLASH and water safety resources, visit: https://gadnrle.org/wear-it 

 

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Group Photo in front of life jacket loaner sign with lake in the background.

 

ABOUT THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
The mission of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is to sustain, enhance, protect, and conserve Georgia's natural, historic and cultural resources for present and future generations, while recognizing the importance of promoting the development of commerce and industry that utilize sound environmental practices. For more information, please visit www.gadnr.org.

 

ABOUT FRIENDS OF GEORGIA STATE PARKS AND HISTORIC SITES

Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites works to serve, support, and celebrate Georgia’s state parks and historic sites. Through partnerships, advocacy, and community support, Friends helps protect and preserve these treasured places. For more information, visit friendsofgastateparks.org.

 

For more information, contact, Haley Chafin, Manager of External Affairs – 470-303-0719, Haley.Chafin@dnr.ga.gov