Canadian Red Cross is greatly saddened by recent water related deaths in Saskatchewan. Red Cross urges Canadians to get trained and be careful when enjoying water activities, especially since water levels are high.
"These are very tragic incidents and we extend our condolences to the families" says Keely McBride, Water Safety Program Representative for the Red Cross in Saskatchewan. "Unfortunately, an average of 400 Canadians drown each year. Our goal, and that of our partners in water safety, is to get that number down to zero."
"High water levels are particularly dangerous right now, so please use care and caution when you are near rivers, creeks and lakes with rising water levels," cautions McBride. "Learning to swim is important, but it's swimming and safety together that saves lives," explains McBride. The Red Cross Swim program teaches both swimming and water safety skills, from preschool ages up to adult.
Who is at risk for drowning?
Boating is the most frequent activity leading to drowning in Canada.
Aquatic activities (e.g. swimming, wading, or playing near water such as swimming pools) are the second most frequent activities leading to drowning.
Adult males and children are the most vulnerable to drowning. Males between 15 and 24 years of age make up the majority of those who die as a result of drowning; next are children age 1-4
How can you avoid water-related injuries?
Boat smart! Always wear your lifejacket or personal flotation device.
Know that water and alcohol don't mix. Don't drink while swimming or boating.
Ensure home pools are fenced (not just around the property) and the gate access is fitted with a self-closing and self-latching mechanism.
Supervise your children. If you head to a cottage by a lake, or even your local pool, adult supervision is the best protection for children, even if they can swim.
Be cautious around currents, and know what to do if you get into trouble.
Get trained. Take swimming and first aid lessons to learn how to prevent injury and respond in emergencies.
Each year, Canadian Red Cross trains more than one million Canadians to be safe around water. Red Cross has been a leader in water safety in Canada for more than 60 years; in that time, drowning rates in Canada have decreased by more than half. For more information, call your local Red Cross office or visit to www.redcross.ca.
