Health tip: Staying safe in the water

There is nothing that cools the sun-soaked body better than a dip in the pool, lake, or river. While most water-related activities occur without incident, according to the Lifesaving Society's Ontario Drowning Report (2009), almost 500 Canadians die every year in water-related incidents, and Ontario accounts for 33 per cent (164). This summer alone 10 people have drowned in Ontario waters.

Children are particularly vulnerable and require increased supervision at all times near any body of water. Drowning can occur in as little as 10 seconds and you should not expect to hear any thrashing or yells from the victim. While we have seen a large number of children drown this year, typically it is men who make up the largest drowning population (Toronto Star, July 7, 2010).

Swimming is not just a recreational activity, but also a life-saving skill. Drowning is not an accident- it is predictable and preventable. By taking simple proactive steps we can collectively reduce the number of drowning related injuries and deaths.

Tips to prevent drowning:

• Everyone should learn to swim (www.lifesavingsociety.com)
• Always wear an approved personal flotation device when boating
• Keep children nearby when at the waters edge
• Always supervise children and teens in the water
• Do not overestimate your skill level
• Never mix alcohol with swimming or water activities

The RBC First Office for Injury Prevention aims to reduce injury and injury-related death through education and research. For regular prevention information please subscribe to the Ounce of Prevention blog: http://ounceofprevention.sunnybrook.ca