The Canadian summer, as short as it is, is around the halfway point now, with many families and individuals still set to go out on the water to enjoy whatever time they can during vacation. As local residents do so, they ought to keep in mind that statistics of drownings in Canada are on the increase in recent years, and this year has been no exception, with death by drowning increasing in spite of all the safety programs and water safety reminders that are available.
According to the Canadian Red Cross, an average of 400 people drown in Canada each year, and note that only 46 per cent of Canadian children know how to swim.
In Weyburn, there are Red Cross swimming lessons held throughout the year at the Leisure Centre's swimming pool, plus local service clubs help pay for learn-to-swim lessons for children each year.
Clearly much more than this is needed, when one considers the two age groups most at risk for drowning are children aged one to four, and men aged 15 to 44; for that children's age group also, drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death, and small children are the most vulnerable group for near-drownings; for every death there are an additional four to five near-drowning incidents, some which require hospitalization. Also, a factor in most child drownings is a lack of adult supervision.
When heading out to a pool, a river or a lake, whether it's fun on the beach or fishing in a boat, or waterskiing behind a boat, residents need to always be thinking and taking proper precautions around water. As the Red Cross notes, swimming skills alone are not enough to prevent water deaths. It also takes learning how to prepare for an emergency in or on the water.
For adults, even those who are good swimmers, factors such as strong, hidden currents can sweep away a swimmer quickly, and those who are non-swimmers or weak swimmers can get caught if there is an abrupt drop-off at a lake or an undertow on a river.
Diving into water can also be a dangerous hazard, unless the swimmer takes the precaution to ensure the water is deep enough, and is properly trained in how to dive into the water safely.
The bottom line for all of those looking to enjoy their vacation times is to be aware of all times of safety hazards, even if you're a good swimmer, and take the proper precautions.
