Install a lifeguard at Lake Tapps
The Issue
On August 6th, 2026, I found myself in a situation that no one should ever have to experience: saving a 17-year-old boy's life at Lake Tapps. The event was terrifying, and it underscored the urgent need for better water safety measures in our community having a 13 year old daughter myself makes it hit differently.
Just a few weeks later, we were devastated when we heard about the tragic drowning of a 10-year-old child at the same location, a heart-wrenching loss that we cannot afford to ignore.
Lake Tapps has become a beloved recreational spot for families and individuals alike, drawing visitors who look forward to the natural beauty and aquatic activities the lake provides. Unfortunately, the rising number of visitors has not been matched by a corresponding increase in safety measures, leading to preventable accidents and losses that deeply affect our community. While Lake Tapps offers enjoyment, it also presents risks that require immediate attention.
Statistics from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance indicate that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-4 and the second for those under 14. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about ten people die from unintentional drowning every day in the U.S., and 20% of those who lose their lives are children. These tragedies are avoidable through proven safety measures, such as the presence of trained lifeguards.
Across various locations, the implementation of lifeguards has been shown to decrease drowning risks significantly. The International Life Saving Federation points out that qualified lifeguards can reduce drowning and related injuries by over 50%. We believe that installing a lifeguard at Lake Tapps is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of everyone who chooses to enjoy this beautiful area.
We urge the local government, the Lake Tapps Community Council, and other relevant authorities to prioritize this initiative. The cost of hiring a lifeguard is a small price to pay in comparison to the invaluable lives we can save. We can start by dedicating resources to station a full-time lifeguard during the peak season and offering water safety programs throughout the year to educate the community.
Each day without action is a day where another life could be at risk. Join us in advocating for safety at Lake Tapps. Let us work together to prevent further tragedies by signing this petition. Your support can make a difference and help ensure that our community remains a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.
60
The Issue
On August 6th, 2026, I found myself in a situation that no one should ever have to experience: saving a 17-year-old boy's life at Lake Tapps. The event was terrifying, and it underscored the urgent need for better water safety measures in our community having a 13 year old daughter myself makes it hit differently.
Just a few weeks later, we were devastated when we heard about the tragic drowning of a 10-year-old child at the same location, a heart-wrenching loss that we cannot afford to ignore.
Lake Tapps has become a beloved recreational spot for families and individuals alike, drawing visitors who look forward to the natural beauty and aquatic activities the lake provides. Unfortunately, the rising number of visitors has not been matched by a corresponding increase in safety measures, leading to preventable accidents and losses that deeply affect our community. While Lake Tapps offers enjoyment, it also presents risks that require immediate attention.
Statistics from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance indicate that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-4 and the second for those under 14. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about ten people die from unintentional drowning every day in the U.S., and 20% of those who lose their lives are children. These tragedies are avoidable through proven safety measures, such as the presence of trained lifeguards.
Across various locations, the implementation of lifeguards has been shown to decrease drowning risks significantly. The International Life Saving Federation points out that qualified lifeguards can reduce drowning and related injuries by over 50%. We believe that installing a lifeguard at Lake Tapps is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of everyone who chooses to enjoy this beautiful area.
We urge the local government, the Lake Tapps Community Council, and other relevant authorities to prioritize this initiative. The cost of hiring a lifeguard is a small price to pay in comparison to the invaluable lives we can save. We can start by dedicating resources to station a full-time lifeguard during the peak season and offering water safety programs throughout the year to educate the community.
Each day without action is a day where another life could be at risk. Join us in advocating for safety at Lake Tapps. Let us work together to prevent further tragedies by signing this petition. Your support can make a difference and help ensure that our community remains a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.
The Decision Makers
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on August 28, 2026