Friday, June 20, 2014
Play safe around the water this summer
Ottawa – Water safety and drowning prevention were at the forefront today as the City of Ottawa and the Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition (ODPC) kicked off their annual awareness campaign at Britannia Beach.
Whether at the beach or other water play areas, it is important to realize that drowning is preventable.
With the City’s four supervised beaches set to officially open tomorrow, and most wading pools, splash pads and outdoor pools already open, the City of Ottawa is reminding residents to practice water safety during the summer months.
For the safety of all beach goers, the City’s beaches feature a designated swim area and have lifeguards on duty daily from noon to 7 p.m. Safety signage and rules are posted at each beach. Starting Saturday, Ottawa Public Health will provide daily updates on ottawa.ca regarding water quality at the beaches to inform residents whether swimming is advisable.
Drowning is one of the leading causes of injury-related incidents for Canadian children under the age of five.
Ottawa averages five drowning deaths per year, including victims of all ages, in pools, rivers and lakes, in all four seasons.
Parents and caregivers need to be extra vigilant as drowning occurs most often in private swimming pools, often during a lapse of adult supervision. Residents who intend to be around backyard pools this summer are encouraged to follow these tips:
- Stay within arm's reach of your child at all times in and around the water.
- Enrol yourself and your children in swimming lessons.
- Take a first aid and CPR course.
- Install fencing around all pools, measuring at least five feet or 1.5 metres high and include a self-latching, self closing and lockable gate.
- Keep safety equipment and a phone close to the pool.
- And, know what to do in an emergency including CPR and calling 9-1-1.
If boating is your summer passion, we urge you to be weather-wise by checking local weather conditions before your departure, make sure to get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card, always wear a lifejacket, and don’t mix alcohol and boating.
By practicing safety and drowning prevention in or around water, together we can help ensure that our children and family members enjoy a safe and enjoyable summer.
Now in its 14th year, the ODPC is committed to raising the awareness of water safety and drowning prevention for parents, caregivers, children and youth. Whether it is at the beach, cottage, campsite or in the backyard pool, a drowning can happen in a matter of seconds.
The ODPC is made up of representatives from the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa, CHEO, City of Ottawa, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department, Dovercourt Recreation Centre, Lifesaving Society, Ottawa Fire Services, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Police Service and Ottawa Public Health.
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