It can happen in a matter of seconds.
Every year. More than 400 Canadians (150 in Ontario) die in preventable water-related incidents.
It is National Drowning Prevention Week.
The Life Saving Society notes, in most cases, drowning victims never intended to go into the water, and were often close to safety. For that reason, everyone should learn to swim.
In addition, children should always be supervised around the water. If you're not within arm's reach, the society says you're not close enough.
And while there has to be a life jacket available for everyone on a boat, it's not mandatory they be worn, but they should be. Scrambling to find, and put one on in an emergency, can be life-threatening.
The society also recommends:
- Stay sober in, on, and around the water. Alcohol consumption is a factor in many water-related fatalities. Both alcohol and cannabis use impair balance, judgment, and reflexes
- Make smart choices before going in, on or around the water
- Keep learning. You can save a life, yours, and someone else’s. Take a learn-to-swim, lifesaving or first-aid class
banner image: Barrie 360
