The Legislature finds that, given the great diversity of water recreation activities available statewide and the significant loss of life associated with those activities, there is a great need for an aquatic safety program in the state.
It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this article that fundamental water safety training be provided for all the children of the state so that California's youth will be able to enjoy water recreation while avoiding its hazards.
Ca. Educ. Code § 51879.7