The Lifesaving Society wants to remind everyone to be safe when they are in, on and around water Please keep these Water Smart key messages in mind along with current public health advice to reduce the spread of COVID-19:
Empty Backyard Pools when they are not in use. With more parents and caregivers working from home and an increased number of children at home this summer. Parents and caregivers are looking for ways to keep them entertained. Prevent tragedy this summer by emptying standing water from your yard and play spaces when it is not in use.
Avoid Distractions when children are in or near water. It only takes a few seconds for a child’s experience in the water to turn from fun to deadly. Children can drown in only a few inches of water and drowning is silent. Parents and caregivers who are distracted by phones, computers, books, or conversation can put their children at risk.
Stay Within Arm’s Reach and Provide Active Adult Supervision. Whether at a lake, river, pool or bathtub, watch children closely and constantly when they are in or around any type of water. Consider designating an adult to supervise children swimming. Always keep young children within arm’s reach of an adult. Most children were alone and playing near water when they fell in and drowned.
Don’t Drink and Drown alcohol consumption is a major risk factor in boating related fatalities. Alcohol influences balance, coordination, and judgement and its effects are heightened by sun exposure, wind, waves and dehydration, making it more difficult to get yourself out of trouble.
Always Wear a Lifejacket. Not wearing a lifejacket is a major risk factor in boating related fatalities. Check the label to confirm the lifejacket is Transport Canada approved. Ensure it is the correct size and fits snugly. The Lifesaving Society strongly advocates for the wearing of lifejackets as the most effective tool to reduce boating related drownings in Canada.
Don’t Boat or Swim Alone as this is a major risk factor in swimming and boating related fatalities. Never swim or boat alone. Make sure older children swim with a buddy every time.
