We’re in the midst of National Drowning Prevention Week, and Lifesaving Society Manitoba is highlighting the need to be

water-smart.

 

Dr. Christopher Love with the Society said they’ve been working with newcomer agencies for over 10 years to provide water safety training.

 

He added that some newcomers are arriving from countries where the water is unsafe for swimming, due to rough conditions or danger from predators like sharks and crocodiles.

 

General tips for anyone on or near the water include always supervising children, boating sober, and wearing a lifejacket to avoid accidental drowning.

 

However, the latest report from the Lifesaving Society Manitoba shows that fatal drownings in the province are on the rise.

 

The new average for Manitoba is now 23 per year, up from 22.

 

Love advises that children should have adult supervision at all times when near water, including in the bathtub.

 

At the beach or pool, children who cannot swim should wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device and an adult supervisor must be within arms’ reach of these children at all times.

 

For more on keeping children safe from drowning as well as more water safety tips, check out lifesaving.mb.ca for their “Within Arms’ Reach” brochure.