​Being out on the water on a hot day – boating, swimming, or just splashing around with friends– can be one of summer's most enjoyable activities. When the temperature rises, getting into the water is something many of us like to do to cool down.

Whether that water is an ocean, a river, a lake, or even a  bathtub, it is critical to keep top of mind that all call for respect, attention, and safe water practices. Drownings, which can happen in seconds and in silence, are a leading cause of preventable death, especially during the summer. 

It is especially important to keep a close eye on children when they're near or in the water. I was reminded of this recently with my one-year-old son during his pre-bedtime bath. While sitting and reaching for his bath toy, he momentarily lost his balance and slid backwards, dunking his head in the water. He was not fully submerged, but enough so that it spooked both of us. I immediately helped him back up, but it was scary for me to observe, and for him to experience.

Thankfully, no harm was done, but it served as a reminder that accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Small things helped us in that situation – he had my full attention, I wasn't distracted, I was within arms reach, and the bath was only filled to his waist level. My wife and I have now added an anti-slip mat as well to try and further reduce the chance of anything like happening again, and have reviewed best practices and further educated ourselves on water safety.

According to the Canadian Red Cross, about 400 people die every year in Canada due to preventable water-related injuries, mainly drowning. Knowing this, we can keep our children and ourselves safe while we have fun together by respecting the inherent dangers of water and being mindful of water safety.

During National Drowning Prevention  Week  (July 20-26), let's be mindful of all the things we can all do to stay safe in, on, and around the water:  

• Always supervise children or non-swimmers. Stay within arm's reach and keep a close eye on them – drowning can happen in seconds.
• Take swimming classes. If you've never learned to swim, consider learning from a professional. Try to ensure that you, your children, and other loved ones learn to swim.
• Take first aid classes. The skills gained can help you provide rescue breaths or CPR to somebody struggling in the water until help arrives.
• Do not swim while impaired. Substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and others can significantly increase drowning risk as they impair balance, judgment, and reflexes.
• Swim with a buddy. It's safer to swim with other people. Not only can you help or call for help if something goes wrong, they can do the same for you.
• Know the dangers. Things like ocean currents, fast-moving rivers, or ice-cold water can severely impact your ability to swim or even to just stay afloat. Even strong swimmers can drown when fatigued by these risks.
• Always wear a lifejacket when in a boat. Research shows that more than 80 percent of people who drowned while boating were not wearing their lifejackets. It is important to buy a lifejacket that fits well and that you are comfortable in, and to keep it on at all times whenever you are using your boat. If you are unable to afford a lifejacket, consider borrowing from a community rec program or swimming pool, or maybe try local fundraising to invest in various sizes for community use.
• Use flotation devices. If you're unsure about your swimming ability, use flotation devices you can grab onto when you're tired. Wearing a lifejacket is also a good option as long as it fits well.  

For more tips about water safety and drowning prevention, please visit the LifeSaving Society's BC chapter at lifesaving.bc.ca