Norfolk County is joining the Lifesaving Society Canada to recognize the importance of water safety and drowning prevention by proclaiming July 16 to 22 as National Drowning Prevention Week.
To assist residents in education and awareness on the topic, the County’s Water Safety Awareness Promoter has coordinated a variety of daily events including games and prizes, beginning July 14, and running until July 22 at the Annaleise Carr Aquatic Centre in Simcoe.
According to the Lifesaving Society of Canada, with over 450 Canadians drowning in preventable water-related incidents annually, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional death among Canadians under 60+ years of age. Even one drowning is one too many.
“Many Norfolk County residents and visitors spend their summer enjoying a variety of activities near or on the water, including swimming and boating,” said Mayor Amy Martin. “During Drowning Prevention Week, and all year long, I encourage our community to be aware of water safety tips, and take advantage of the quality swimming lessons, assessments, and other resources offered by Norfolk County to help everyone stay safe.”
To help reduce the risk of drowning, Norfolk County residents are encouraged to:
- Take the Lifesaving Society Swim to Survive Standard (teaches how to survive an unexpected fall into the water) and participate in a learn-to-swim program
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket when out on a boat
- Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages while participating in aquatic activities.
- Ensure that children are under the direct supervision of an adult when around barrier-free bodies of water
To learn more about National Drowning Prevention Week, and for a full list of events, please visit norfolkcounty.ca/WaterSafety. To learn more about Norfolk County proclamations please visit norfolkcounty.ca/Proclamations.
