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swimming

It’s Drowning Prevention Week and the City of Ottawa is sharing important messaging and reminders for people to help keep them safe.

This is not a typical year, and yet, many of us are trying to maintain some sense of normalcy, especially this summer (before the looming unknowns of another school year are upon us) and fortunately, given the nicer weather, many of our usual favourite activities can be done safely outdoors.

Parks and splash pads are open (which were a huge part of our summer each year for my kids, at every age and stage), and mini road trips are being planned by families all over the City.

Some beaches in the Ottawa area are open too (see their website for the list and to keep up with their safety recommendations) or families are playing in the waters at their cottages (rented or owned).

Here’s some important information the City sent me that I want to share with you:

Info and tips from the Lifesaving Society of Ontario for families and children

Children under 12 have an increased drowning risk and need attentive supervision in and around the water. In fact, drowning is the second leading cause of preventable death for children under 10 years.

Water safety tips for children and families:

• Stay within arms’ reach of children under five
• Stay On Guard! Supervision of children and non-swimmers is key
• Always swim with a buddy
• Alcohol and water don’t mix. Don’t drink and swim. Don’t drink and drive your boat
• Always wear a lifejacket when you are in a boat
• Take swimming lessons – (please note City of Ottawa Swim Lessons are running again so parents can sign up now)
• Swim in lifeguarded areas

When it comes to bodies of water – be aware that even if you have been in that water before, it may have changed. Be aware of currents, rocks etc.

Safety around water entry

The Lifesaving Society teaches strategies for safe water entries. This one is a great way to teach your children about water safety through enforcing these steps each time you are heading near water.

Remember this:

Stop! Look! Listen & Stop! Look! Go Slow! 

They STOP before entering the water. 

LOOK around to see if there are any hazards around the water and to make sure you, or another responsibility adult who they know, are right there within arm’s reach.

LISTEN for the adult to tell them they can enter the water.  Make sure that the adult always enters the water first, protecting the child from any water drop offs or deep-water levels. 

Next enter the water SLOWLY and safely.

Have fun this summer, but stay safe!