Lifesaving Society of N.S. marks National Drowning Prevention Week

CITYnews halifax \ By Mark Hodgins

Lots of Haligonians have been hitting up local beaches this week as heat and humidity sticks around the region, and the Lifesaving Society of Nova Scotia is reminding people of ways to be safe in the water.

July 16-22 is National Drowning Prevention Week in Canada, a time the society uses to raise awareness of the risks people can face while out on the water, be it swimming or boating.

“This is pretty much the warmest week of year generally speaking, and we see the most drownings during this week,” explained Michael Melenchuk, executive director of the Lifesaving Society of Nova Scotia.

The theme for this year’s drowning prevention week is Water Smart Parents. The society says in 96 per cent of drowning deaths in children under five, supervision was “absent or distracted.”

“We really want to encourage parents and caregivers to stay within arms-reach of little ones,” Melenchuk said. “This means sometimes putting down our technology so we can be be in the moment and pay attention to what’s going on, because with the currents, rips, offshore winds and all the things that come along with our beautiful beaches, things can happen very quickly.”

Another key to staying safe is using supervised beaches, Melenchuk said. The municipality has a list on its website of local beaches that will have a lifeguard on hand until the end of August.

“If you have a young one, that supervision area is super important. Lifeguards are there to respond – it doesn’t mean you’re off the hook and you should still be within arms-reach of littles ones – but there’s support there if something does happen,” he offered.

The Society recommends being aware of the place you’re swimming, looking out for things like drop-offs where the water quickly becomes deep. It’s also a good idea to bring someone with you, and if you’re planning to drink, maybe wait until after the swim – Melenchuk said alcohol can be a contributing factor in drownings.

For those out on boats, making sure floatation devices are in good working order is important in case you end up in the water.