We are seeing a huge trend of people camping, hanging out at local beaches and spending time at cottages this summer, making it important to bring awareness to the subject of drowning. Despite a downward trend, drowning is still the third leading cause of death in Canada. Drowning can be prevented! Join the Lifesaving Society Canada in bringing awareness to the drowning problem during National Drowning Prevention Week from July 18–24, 2021.

Over 400 people fatally drown annually in Canada, making it the second leading cause of unintentional death for children and the third leading cause of unintentional death for adults. Statistics show that almost 70% of drowning fatalities never intended to go into the water and were often within 15 metres of safety. Nearly every Canadian has known someone who has drowned or had a non-fatal drowning experience, whether personally or from his or her community.

To help reduce drowning, all Canadians are encouraged to:

• Learn the Lifesaving Society Swim to Survive standard (teaches how to survive an unexpected fall into the water) and participate in a learn-to-swim program.
• Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when out on a boat.
• Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages while participating in aquatic activities.
• Ensure that children are under the direct supervision of an adult when around barrier-free bodies of water.

Click here to learn more ways to stay safe this Summer!