Drowning deaths largely preventable warns Canadian Red Cross
Canadian Red Cross is greatly saddened by the six drownings that have occurred in Alberta in the past three weeks. Red Cross urges Canadians to get trained and be careful when enjoying water activities.
“These are very tragic incidents and we extend our condolences to the families” says Marta Gorski, Alberta Water Safety Representative with the Canadian Red Cross. “Unfortunately, an average of 400 Canadians drown each year. We need to get the message out that drownings, like other injury deaths, are predictable and preventable. Our goal, and that of our partners in water safety, is to get that number down to zero.”
“Learning to swim is important, but learning water safety is key to knowing what to do in an emergency in or on the water,” explains Gorski. “It's swimming and safety together that saves lives.” The Red Cross Swim program teaches both swimming and water safety skills, from preschool ages up to youth.
Who is at risk for drowning?
• Boating is the most frequent activity leading to drowning in Canada.
• Aquatic activities (swimming, wading, or playing near unprotected water such as swimming pools) are the second most frequent activities leading to drowning.
Adult males and children are the most vulnerable to drowning. Most drowning victims are males between 15 and 24 years of age; next are children age 1-4.
How to avoid water-related injuries
• Boat smart! Always wear your lifejacket or personal flotation device.
• 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.
• Supervision of children is key, whether at home or on vacation. If you head to a cottage by a lake, or even your local pool, adult supervision is the best protection for children – even those who can swim.
• Be cautious about swimming in currents, and know what to do if you get into trouble.
Get trained. Take swimming and water safety lessons; get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card if you operate a boat; know how to respond in an emergency by taking first aid lessons.
Each year, Canadian Red Cross trains more than one million Canadians to be safe around water. The Canadian Red Cross has been a leader in water safety in Canada for the past 60 years; in that time, drowning rates in Canada have decreased by more than half.
