Community News Archives

July 20-26, 2014, is National Drowning Prevention Week, a cause that deserves your attention! The event increases awareness across Canada regarding the need for drowning prevention or safety around water.

Just a few simple water safety tips can help to keep your loved ones safe and will prevent drowning:

• If you’re not within arms’ reach, you’ve gone too far! Never leave children alone near water, and keep them in your sight. It only takes a second for the unthinkable to happen. Reading a book, text messaging, talking on the phone, preparing food – these are all distractions that could lead to a drowning.
• Life Jackets are Life Savers! Lifejackets must fit properly and be in good condition. Everyone should wear a lifejacket when on a boat, and anyone who cannot swim should wear a lifejacket while swimming – especially young children.
• Fence it, prevent it! Install a four-sided pool fence around your backyard pool.
• Learn how to Swim before taking the dive! Swimming is an essential life skill. Everyone needs to know how to swim
• Educate on rules before playing in the pool! Educate your children on the importance of  never playing or swimming near drains or suction outlets.
• Pool Parties! Assign a designated ‘water watcher,’ a responsible adult whose only responsibility is to watch the kids swimming and playing in  and near the water.
• Teens to cool to follow the rules! Teens should not be left unattended while swimming or boating. Younger teens need to have an adult present with them and older teens – above the age of 16-years-old – should be able to get the attention of an adult within thirty seconds. Encourage them to never swim alone and to dive into water from the side of a pool. Encourage them to dive from a diving board instead and to always dive with their hands in front of them.
• And Be prepared! Get trained in water skills, swimming skills, CPR and first aid.

Remember:  we are all responsible for water safety!