July 18, 2023
The City of Edmonton reminds everyone to be safe in, on and around water, as part of National Drowning Prevention Week from July 16 to 22.
“Our summer, so far, has been very hot and we have definitely seen an increase in attendance at our outdoor pools,” said Priya Bhasin-Singh, Director of Aquatics and Community Leisure Centres. “As we see more and more people enjoying our indoor and outdoor pools, as well as our river valley, we want them to do it safely. Many water related incidents are preventable, and this is a great opportunity to share some water safety tips.”
The Lifesaving Society is focusing on “Do One Thing, Improve One Thing and Add One Thing” and suggest the following water safety tips:
- Always keep an eye on young children around the water—this includes all open bodies of water, as well as backyard pools and even bathtubs. If you're not within arms' reach, you’re too far away.
- Heading out on a boat? Don’t forget your lifejacket—choose it and use it. Lifejackets are lifesavers, but only if worn properly. Consider lifejackets for your pets as well.
- Stay sober in, on and around water. Both alcohol and cannabis can impair balance, judgment and reflexes. If you’re boating under the influence, you’re putting yourself and others at risk.
- Swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool; know your limits and check local conditions before going in. In open water, inflatables can float away and take you much farther than intended.
- Many fatal drownings occur when people are swimming alone. Always swim with someone else.
Last summer, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) rescued 75 people and animals on or near the river. Last year the Park Ranger Marine unit conducted 11 rescues. As of the beginning of July this year, EFRS has already had 55 rescue events on or near water in Edmonton while the Park Ranger Marine unit has had five rescues. Attendance to-date for outdoor pools in 2023 is 30,219.
National Drowning Prevention Week leads into World Drowning Prevention Day. On April 28, 2021, the United Nations passed a resolution on global drowning prevention. In recognition of the impact of drowning prevention on the global community, this resolution declared July 25 as World Drowning Prevention Day. Swimming is a skill that lasts a lifetime. Consider registering yourself and your family in swimming lessons.
