The Lifesaving Society designates the third week in July as National Drowning Prevention Week, a recognition week aimed at water safety and drowning prevention.
Each year, more than 400 Canadians die in preventable water related incidents. This is a staggering number, especially given the fact one death is one too many. Together, we can lower this statistic by keeping water safety a priority this summer.
Over 400 Canadians die in preventable water related incidents annually
Most drownings in children occur when supervision is absent or distracted
The data behind non-fatal drowning is just as staggering. Each year in Ontario, there is an average of:
- 164 drowning deaths
- 100 hospitalizations due to non-fatal drowning
- 568 emergency department visits due to non-fatal drowning
Non-fatal drowning is disproportionately impacting children in Ontario. It is up to parents and guardians to be informed and prioritize water safety each summer.
Be water-safe this summer
Here are a few water-safety tips from Lambton Shores Fire and Emergency Services:
Always supervise children around water. If you’re not within arm’s reach, you’ve gone too far
Never underestimate the power of current. Be cautious when swimming in open water and know what to do if caught in a current
Always wear a life jacket when in a boat of any kind, or if you are not a strong swimmer. Choose it. Use it
CPR is a lifesaving skill. Find a local course and learn CPR so you’re trained and ready
Alcohol consumption is a factor in many water related fatalities. Both alcohol and cannabis impair balance, judgement, and reflexes. Stay sober in, on, or around water
Rips are strong currents that often start near the shore and push out, taking swimmers from shallow water to deeper water.
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