National Drowning Prevention Week July 21-27 |

Water safety should always be at the top of parents minds in the summer months.

Every year, avoidable and tragic drowning deaths occur in communities across Canada.

NDPW aims to raise awareness to the risks and also to what parents can do to stay safe around water.

Lifejackets are for everyone

For it to be effective, a #lifejacket must fit right and be worn properly. Be sure everyone is geared up this summer for safety
80% of people who drowned while boating were either not wearing a #lifejacket or weren’t wearing it properly. Make sure everyone is wearing a lifejacket this summer.
Parents, to keep your family safe, you have to keep yourself safe too. Wear a lifejacket. #WaterSmartParents
Lifejackets are like seatbelts. They help you if the unexpected happens, but only if they’re being worn properly
Do you know the differences between a lifejacket and a PFD? https://watersmartparents.ca/lifejackets

Drowning doesn’t always lead to death.

Learn more about non-fatal drowning here
There were an average of 568 emergency room visits each year between 2012-2021 due to non-fatal drowning. Don’t be a 2024 statistic.
Children and youth have the highest number and rate of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for non-fatal drowning. Learn how to keep your kids safe

Take a first aid course

Are you prepared for accidents? What if your child breaks their arm, gets a nosebleed, or has a seizure? Don’t leave anything to chance. Learn how to treat common injuries and do CPR when you take a #FirstAid course. Find one here
Learning first aid and CPR is an easy way to keep your loved ones safer. You don’t need any previous training or knowledge.

Swim where the lifeguards are

Less than 1% of drownings occur in #lifeguard-supervised settings. If you’re planning a day at the water, the safest place to swim is where the lifeguards are

Supervise your kids at all times

Kids can drown in any amount of water. Kiddie pools, water tables, and even buckets still require adult supervision. Don’t take your eyes off the prize.
If you’re not within arms’ reach, you’ve gone too far. When you’re in the water with your little ones, make sure you’re close enough to pick them up and give them the support they need.
16% of drownings happen in bathtubs. Always stay tub-side for your kids. Find other bath tips for #WaterSmartParents here

Plan for a safe vacation

Whether it’s to a sunny beach, a cozy cottage, or a lively waterpark, plan for a safe vacation
Will you be hitting the water this summer for some tubing, waterskiing, or wakeboarding? Amp up your safety and your fun with these tips
Before you enjoy the water this summer, make sure to check weather/marine forecasts – gather and check safety equipment -and make sure you know the rules and where the lifeguards are

See these important resources below, and swim safely everyone!