It’s nearly July long weekend and if the weather permits, many will be heading out to the lake to enjoy their extra days off with boating, fishing, and general lake-bound fun.
To keep everyone as safe as possible on the water, the Canadian Red Cross has a few tips to make sure everyone is being smart about their weekend fun.
Water safety is all about making the smart choice, according to the Red Cross. Boating sober, taking a properly-fitted lifejacket with you, and paying attention to young children in and around the water can make a huge difference.
According to recent statistics, over half of Canada’s water-related fatalities happen during the summer months. The most at-risk demographics are males aged 15 and up, and children under the age of 5.
About 80% of all deaths by drowning were male, and 64% of those male deaths involved alcohol. About 35% of drowning victims were alone at the time of the incident, and lack of adult supervision is a factor in 75% of water-related deaths of children under the age of 10.
These statistics are relevant to all types of water situations, whether out on the lake or at home in a backyard pool. The Red Cross strongly encourages parents to provide constant supervision of children where water is involved and to avoid alcohol when taking on a role of responsibility.
Every year, around 525 Canadians die from unintentional water-related accidents, and a few easy steps could prevent it from happening.
Things as simple as wearing a life jacket, rotating who’s watching the kids swim, and taking a few swimming lessons can make a huge difference. Some base knowledge about water safety would definitely be an asset as well.
It’s very important to know that in a situation where someone is potentially drowning, the best course of action is to try and throw them something buoyant, and call 911 — avoid getting in the water yourself at all costs.
People in distress can be very strong; it’s safer to keep some distance between them and yourself, and throw them a life-saving device that you can reel them in to safety.
The Red Cross also reminds lake-goers that even in the summertime, the majority of Canadian lakes are still considered cold-water bodies — so if you’re planning on spending a lot of time in the water, make sure to take a break and warm up regularly to avoid negative effects.
Sun safety is always necessary as well; it can be easy to succumb to dehydration or sunstroke when out in the heat for too long. Apply sunscreen, drink lots of water, and cover up if you feel overheated.
The most important advice is to be smart, and have fun, and keep everyone safe on the water this summer — because a Saskatchewan summer on the lake can be a great way to spend time in the outdoors.
More information on water safety, Canadian statistics, and Red Cross swimming programs can be found on their website.
