Swimming and Water Safety

Where there’s water, there’s risk

You might be surprised to learn that the second leading cause of death in children aged one to four is drowning. Here are some tips on how to help keep your kids safe when playing near water — whether a swimming pool, river or lake.

• Make sure young children are always wearing a lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) when playing in, on or around water.
• Keep young children within arm’s reach at all times.
• Choose a safe place to swim, such as a supervised waterfront or beach. Check for hazards before wading in — including any posted information about water pollution levels.
• Be aware of water risks in spring, when ice gets dangerously thin and winter run-offs create strong currents in ditches, creeks and rivers. Warn children of the dangers and supervise their play.
• Enroll your child in a water safety and swimming program — and sign yourself up to learn basic lifesaving skills.