We’re expecting some warm temperatures this weekend, which means it’s important to think about being safe while on the water.
It’s also National Drowning Prevention Week, so Lifesaving Society Manitoba released their drowning report, which summarized the most recent data on water-related fatalities.
The report says 77 percent of drowning victims are male, 38 percent of water-related fatalities occur while swimming, eight percent canoeing, and six percent powerboating.
Lifesaving Society Manitoba Executive Director Stacey Grocholski says 400 people fatally drown annually in Canada making it the second leading cause of unintentional death for children and the third leading cause of unintentional death for adults.
She adds that 16 percent of those who drown while swimming are alone when it happens.
“What we recommend is that if you’re swimming especially in waters that are uncontrolled or you’re not sure of, that you have a buddy.”
She also recommends wearing a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer.
To help reduce drowning, Lifesaving Society Manitoba recommends taking the Lifesaving Society Swim to Survive Standard and participating in a learn-to-swim program, wearing a properly fitted lifejacket when out on a boat, and refraining from drinking alcoholic beverages while participating in aquatic activities.
