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July 18, 2024
The City of Edmonton reminds everyone to be safe in, on and around water as part of National Drowning Prevention Week from July 21 to 27.
“Summer has arrived and with the hot weather, we have seen an increase in attendance at our outdoor and indoor pools,” said Priya Bhasin-Singh, Director of Aquatics and Community Leisure Centres. “We want Edmontonians to be safe while enjoying our City pools, as well as our River Valley.”
Many water related incidents are preventable. This year, the Lifesaving Society is focusing on “seconds can save a life” and suggest the following water safety tips:
- Always keep an eye on children around the water — this includes all open bodies of water, backyard pools and bathtubs. Anything outside of arms’ reach is too far away.
- Swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool; know the limits and check local conditions before going in. In open water, inflatables can go much farther than intended.
- Many fatal drownings occur when people are swimming alone. Always swim with someone else.
- Heading out on the river? Regardless of the water vessel and swimming abilities, don’t forget a lifejacket — choose it and use it. Lifejackets are lifesavers, but only if worn properly. Consider lifejackets for pets as well.
- Stay sober in, on and around water. Both alcohol and cannabis can impair balance, judgment and reflexes. Boating under the influence puts yourself and others at risk.
Since 2022, there has been an increase in warnings issued and the need for river rescues. Last summer (2023), Park Rangers conducted 7,500 safety compliance checks, a 33 per cent increase compared to 2022. There were also 2,489 warnings issued for lack of safety equipment gear, a 159 per cent increase and 19 river rescues which was a 73 per cent increase compared to 2022.
Attendance to date for outdoor pools, up to July 16, 2024, is 25,855.
National Drowning Prevention Week leads into World Drowning Prevention Day. On April 28, 2021, the United Nations passed a resolution on global drowning prevention. In recognition of the impact of drowning prevention on the global community, this resolution declared July 25 as World Drowning Prevention Day.
Swimming is a skill that lasts a lifetime. Consider registering yourself or family in swimming lessons.
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