The Lifesaving Society is calling on Ontarians to take simple, proactive steps to reduce the risk of drowning during National Drowning Prevention Week, which runs through July 26.
This year’s theme, Safer Together, highlights the importance of supervision, swimming with a buddy, using lifejackets, and learning lifesaving skills.
Lifesaving Society Ontario’s Stephanie Bakalar said even small changes can save lives. “It’s simple steps like swimming with someone instead of alone, or wearing a lifejacket instead of just having it nearby. These actions help ensure your day on the water ends happily.”
Statistics show 100 percent of drowning deaths in children under five happened when supervision was absent or distracted. Among adults aged 35 to 64, over half of drowning victims were swimming alone. That number jumps to 71 percent for adults over 65.
The Society is also reminding boaters that 89 percent of boating-related drowning victims weren’t wearing a lifejacket.
Throughout the week, the Society and its partners will be promoting water safety through events and education campaigns across the province.
More information and swimming lesson options are available at lifesavingsociety.com.
