Saskatchewan Promotes Water Safety During National Drowning Prevention Week
As Saskatchewan families continue to enjoy lakes and beaches this summer, the provincial government is encouraging everyone to put safety first during National Drowning Prevention Week, running July 19-25.
The province is reminding residents that one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of drowning is to wear a properly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) whenever you're on or around open water.
Many Saskatchewan Provincial Parks also offer free lifejacket loaner stations, allowing visitors to borrow lifejackets for swimming, paddling, and boating.
"Spending time at the lake is a highlight of summer in Saskatchewan, and we want everyone to enjoy it safely," said Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Brad Crassweller.
Water Safety Tips
Saskatchewan Parks recommends everyone:
- Wear a lifejacket whenever you're in or on open water.
- Keep children within arm's reach at all times.
- Never drink alcohol or use drugs while swimming or boating.
- Learn to swim and know basic water safety and CPR.
- Check water conditions, including depth, temperature, and currents.
- Remember that most beaches in the province do not have lifeguards, so visitors are responsible for their own safety.
Many of our lakes and beaches are also in remote parts of the province where emergency services and help may be a very, very long way away. So do everything you can to keep yourself and those around you safe!
The Lifesaving Society also reminds people that drowning is preventable through simple decisions, including wearing a lifejacket, supervising children closely, and choosing to swim and boat sober.
Before You Head to the Lake
Before visiting a beach this summer take a few minutes to:
- Check current weather conditions.
- Make sure everyone has properly fitted lifejackets.
- Identify safe swimming areas.
- Know that conditions such as cold water, waves, or changing weather can quickly increase risk.
National Drowning Prevention Week is led by the Lifesaving Society and aims to increase awareness of water safety across Canada.
Visitors can also take advantage of free lifejacket loaner stations available at select Saskatchewan Provincial Parks.