Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi officially kicked off the season for the county's five swimming pool complexes. Suozzi was joined at the main swimming pool in Cantiague Park by several youngsters who have enrolled for swimming lessons this summer, as well as representatives from the Nassau County chapter of the American Red Cross. At the event, Suozzi complimented the outstanding work the parks employees have done to get the pools ready in time for the summer season.

"Although our parks have suffered from years of budget cuts and neglect, I am proud of the accomplishments our parks staffs have made to get our pools in pristine shape for Nassau residents to enjoy," said Suozzi. "We have repainted and repaired many of our facilities for the first time in years and the improvements will continue as the county's finances get back on track."

Suozzi also provided some safety tips for parents and guardians to follow at backyard pools to prevent drowning and other mishaps:

• Remove toys from the pool areas after use. Toys can tempt children to climb or lean into the pool area unsupervised;

• A fence surrounding a pool with gates that self-close and self-lock; and

• During social gatherings, appoint a 'designated watcher" to protect children from pool accidents.

Suozzi also encouraged residents to take advantage of the affordable swim lessons still available at all five county pools. Classes run for two weeks at a rate of $45 and are available for all experience levels and ages. For more informaiton on the classes, call any of the following locations: Cantiague Park (571-7056); Nickerson Beach Park (571-7700); Christopher Morley Park (571-8113); Wantagh Park (571-7460); and Whitney Pond Park (571-8300).