A Moment with the Mayor: Drowning prevention

As the sun really starts to shine and we all make our way to a cool spot – perhaps the lake or a pool. Wherever we happen to go, my thoughts turn to water safety. For sure, water brings relief and comfort for some but also fear for others. Often these reactions to water have some basis on whether you learned how to swim. Swimming is an excellent sport and a great opportunity for increasing our health and well-being.

Can drowning be prevented? Any accident may be prevented with good planning and ensuring safety equipment and training are in place. Swimming lessons are a great place to start. Many parents introduce their children to water at the swimming pool early in life. This controlled environment allows children and all those not familiar or comfortable with water to experience clear water with Lifeguards in attendance to protect and assist those in distress. A great feature of the lakes and pools is that anyone can learn to swim through public swimming lessons available for all ages.

Lakes are a different world entirely. There are many more unpredictable variables when you encounter the water at a lake. Beach entry is fantastic, yet most lakes are not clear enough to see the bottom, so the water depth is often unknown. Always swim with a friend. If you are out on a boat, a personal flotation device is critical to help prevent you from drowning. Life jackets are extremely beneficial for little ones who are busy exploring and are not necessarily within arm’s reach.

The use of alcohol and other substances can greatly increase your chances of drowning. The ads we hear or see about drinking and driving equally apply to all those going out on the water or for a swim or float. Please exercise caution and care for others and yourself at all times in and around water.

A PFD or life jacket is a great way to start having fun on or in the water. But what about when someone is struggling in the water? Remember that adrenaline can greatly increase someone’s strength when they are drowning. Don’t forget to put something between you and the person you are trying to save. Rescuing someone can be challenging and dangerous training is definitely recommended. First Aid and CPR courses help to round out your safety training.

Please be water safe this summer season, wherever you are! 

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster