With the summer now in full swing, and the thermometer rising, most of you will be flocking to the pool and the lake to refresh and rejuvenate. At Friday Harbour, there are so many opportunities to get out on the water, that we would like to take time during National Drowning Prevention Week, to remind you of some simple ways to stay safe while swimming and boating this summer.
- Drowning is Preventable: Approximately 500 Canadians die in preventable water-related incidents annually. Even one drowning is one too many.
- Watch me, not your phone: Always directly supervise children around the water – if you’re not within arms’ reach, you’ve gone too far.
- Private backyard pools continue to be the primary setting where children 1-4 years of age most often drown (36%).
- Provide active, direct supervision by designating a responsible adult to be a ‘backyard pool lifeguard’
- Be Boat Smart: Wear a Lifejacket. Choose It. Use It. Always wear a lifejacket or PFD when in a boat.
- Learn to Swim to Survive: In most drownings, the victim never intended to go in the water and was often close to safety – could you survive a sudden and unexpected fall into the water?
- Swim with a buddy: Make smart choices before going into or out on the water.
- Know your limits: Intoxication is a factor in almost 40% of boating-related fatalities. Both alcohol and cannabis use impairs judgment, reflexes, and balance. Stay sober when in, on or around the water.
Remember: Having fun on the water means staying safe
