Sacramento Non-Profit Provides Life Vests Along American River

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - For the first time, a local non-profit is making it their mission to keep kids safe on the water.

"We felt that for the 8 million people that visit the parkway it's too important to have one person drown," said American River Parkway Foundation Executive Director Dianna Poggetto.

The American River Parkway Foundation is helping to fill a void that could save lives.

"It happens everyday, people don't realize there's a county ordinance. We go down there and see 2-year-olds with their feet in the water. The current is so swift and cold it can take anyone," said Poggetto.

The law sates that anyone 13 and under needs to wear a safety vest, but not everyone shows up wearing one.

"Times is hard, a lot of parents can't afford a life vest really. Them being there for the kids is very important," said parent Bernie Parker.

It was a service once provided by the County Office of Emergency Services but after budget cuts is gone. Now, $10,000 later, there are multiple stations with eight to 12 vests in a variety of sizes thanks to the non-profit.

"We don't want any drownings. We want everyone to be safe on the parkway, so utilize the life jackets that are there, said Poggetto.

Sacramento Metro Fire and DART teams will put them out at all locations along the parkway.

"We're definitely going to use them, which I didn't even know about them. I think they're great because it means the community is letting us keep our children safe," said Grace Sotelo.

The foundation says it's about educating the public.

"They're available, they're there, they're free, take them," said Poggetto.

They want to make sure everyone knows the law and follow it.

"Life vests are free, take them bring, them back, utilize them," said Poggetto.