“Swim Safe for Silas” Set for June 13 in Cedar Springs

CEDAR SPRINGS — A community water safety event, “Swim Safe for Silas,” will be held Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m. to noon at Creative Technologies Academy near the soccer field in Cedar Springs.

The event was launched by Kaila Palmer in memory of her 4 year old son, Silas, who drowned July 25, 2025, at Long Lake Park in Solon Township. Palmer organized the lifejacket drive to promote water safety and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Donated lifejackets collected through the community drive will be given away to local families during the event while supplies last.

Local nonprofit, School Emergency Response Coalition, (SERC), is supporting the effort through its position in the community to help bring the event to fruition. In addition to its support role, SERC will host a CPR class on the soccer field for up to 25 attendees, providing practical, hands on instruction for those who register.

The event will play host to Solon and Cedar Springs Fire Departments, Kent County Sheriff's Office, and Rockford Ambulance, who will give children and adults alike an opportunity to explore emergency vehicles and equipment and meet first responders.

Organizers say the goal of “Swim Safe for Silas” is to encourage lifejacket use, increase water safety awareness and provide families with tools and knowledge that can help protect children this summer.

“Lifejackets are a simple and important piece of equipment that can save lives in our community," said Captain Greg Seely of the Cedar Springs Fire Department. "This event will help spread that message. It ensures families hear about water safety and leave with the tools to put it into practice.”

If you are interested in donating a new lifejacket, drop off locations include The Village Learning Center, 190 N. Main Street, Cedar Springs and at the Solon Township Fire Department, 2305 19 Mile Road, Cedar Springs.