As the summer draws near in Ottawa, the Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition is encouraging everyone to practice water safety at all times at beaches, lakes, and swimming pools.
Around 500 Canadians die by drowning every year. Recently, a two-year-old boy drowned in the Ottawa River at Petrie Island.
According to the Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition, drowning is quick and silent and can occur in just a few centimeters of water. It is important to note that deaths due to drowning can be prevented if we all do our part and use layers of protection.
Parents are advised to watch children at all times around pools and bodies of water.
The Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition provides water safety tips for safe swimming this summer.
- Stay within arms reach of your child at all times in and around bodies of water.
- Always swim with a buddy.
- Swim near a lifeguard.
- Wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device whenever you are in a boat, regardless of age or swimming ability.
- Make sure you have the mandatory safety equipment on board your vessel.
- Remember that drugs, alcohol, and water do not mix. You must be sober when swimming or boating.
- Take swimming lessons and CPR/first aid classes.
- Install fencing around backyard pools, ideally measuring at least 1.5 meters high and include a self-latching, self-locking gate with a lock.
Importance of first aid
Since accidents or unforeseen events occur without any warning, enrolling in a first aid course is an advantage. A course will provide you with the skills and knowledge on how to help care for minor injuries or even during emergencies.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help those in need by enrolling in a first aid class and for more information, check out these sources:
WikiHow – Basic First Aid Techniques: Step-by-Step Guide