National Drowning Prevention Week
Join us for National Drowning Prevention Week, July 19 to July 25, with a series of fun, family-friendly public swim events and water safety activities. Whether you're a regular swimmer or just looking for a great way to stay cool and safe this summer, there's something for everyone.
The Town has events planned for each day of National Drowning Prevention Week. Times and locations can be found here.
Stay safe around the water
As a lakeside community, it is important to know how to stay safe and be smart around the water. Children under 12 have an increased drowning risk and need attentive supervision in and around the water. Drowning is the third-leading cause of injury-related death for Canadian children under 14 years of age.
Water safety tips for children and families:
- Stay within arms' reach of children under five
- Stay On Guard! Supervision of children and non-swimmers is key
- Always swim with a buddy
- Alcohol and water don't mix. Don't drink and swim. Don't drink and drive your boat
- Always wear a lifejacket when you are in a boat
- Swim in areas with a lifeguard
Let’s have a safe and fun boating season. Before heading out on the lake, complete a pre-departure checklist. Ensure you have all the required safety equipment on your boat and check to see if it is in working order. Always check your life jackets for the expiry date, cuts and overall condition before you set sail. It is now the law to have a life jacket for every person on your boat.
Boat smart. Boat sober. There is no safe way to mix alcohol or drugs and boating, and it is against the law. Offer the driver and passengers non-alcoholic drink options while on your boat. Be alert anytime while operating a vehicle.
Always check the weather and wind conditions before you start your day on the water. Conditions can change quickly, especially on Lake Simcoe. While on your boat, turn on notifications for any incoming weather reports and be prepared to head back to shore at a moment's notice. In the case of an emergency, call 911.
Water safety plan
Create a water safety plan for any activities planned near water. Whether you are heading out in a boat, kayak, canoe or paddleboard, or simply swimming, having a plan will help ensure a safe and fun time for the whole family.
- Use the buddy system – all water activities should be done in pairs
- When near water, watch children closely
- Not a strong swimmer? Consider wearing a lifejacket or using a floatation device
- Be aware of water currents
- Check weather conditions before heading out
- Stay alert and sober around water and during water activities
- In familiar and unfamiliar water, always enter feet first the first time to be sure of the water depth and be aware of any hazards.
- Planning a boat trip? Create the plan with your entire group or family with a start point, destination and estimated duration of the trip. Provide your trip plan to a friend or loved one and check in with them throughout your trip
- On a trip, carry a GPS and compass in the event you become lost
- In the event of an emergency, call 911
For more great tips on water safety, visit Canadian Red Cross. For more boating safety information, visit the Government of Canada’s Office of Boating Safety.