Summer is well underway. To beat the heat, people inevitably look for ways to cool down, which leads to beach days and fun in the sun.
An annual campaign that starts next week highlights that drowning remains one of Canada’s leading causes of preventable death, and that simple, proactive measures can save lives.
National Drowning Prevention Week runs from July 20 to 26. World Drowning Prevention Day is July 25.
The abundance of local beaches, lakes and boating areas along the Sunshine Coast draw local residents and visitors. These inviting waters carry inherent risks, especially in unsupervised settings.
Sixty-seven per cent of drownings occur in natural bodies of water such as lakes, rivers and oceans, according to the Lifesaving Society, a national charitable organization dedicated to preventing drowning through swim lessons, training programs, WaterSmart® education and aquatic safety services.
In areas such as Haywire Bay Regional Park near Powell River and Shelter Point Regional Park on Texada Island, there are no lifeguards, although designated grids guide swimmers toward safer areas. Supervision of children, life jacket usage and being sober and alert are essential to reducing risks while enjoying aquatic activities.
Whether the pursuit of a refreshing dip takes you to popular freshwater areas around Powell and Inland lakes, or oceanside at Palm, Donkersley, Gibsons and Willingdon beaches (to name a few), don’t swim alone and be water smart, because drowning is preventable.
National Drowning Prevention Week reminds everyone to take an active role in water safety, now and for the rest of the summer season.
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