Kitchener pools host water safety events during National Drowning Prevention Week

In Canada, drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury death among children 1-4 years of age, and the second leading cause of preventable death for children under 10 years of age (Lifesaving Society of Ontario, 2024). Non-fatal drowning is also disproportionately impacting children in Ontario. 

The Lifesaving Society designates the third week in July (July 21-27, 2024) as National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW) to focus attention on drowning and drowning prevention. This year’s goal is to educate parents about the risks that lead to non-fatal drowning and the prevention measures they can take to safeguard their families. 

Join the City of Kitchener in recognizing National Drowning Prevention Week at its indoor and outdoor pools with water safety events and public education opportunities as follows: 

Tuesday  

Backyard Pool & Open Water Safety at Breithaupt Recreation Centre 

Make smart choices before going in, on or around the water. 

Wednesday  

Swim to Survive: Learn roll, tread, swim technique – Facebook Live event 

In most drownings, the victim never intended to go in the water and was often close to safety – could you survive a sudden and unexpected fall into the water? 

Thursday  

Within Arms Reach: Active supervision of children clinic at Grand River Recreation Complex 

Always directly supervise children around the water - if you’re not within arms’ reach, you’re too far away. 

Join us for a Free Public Swim at Harry Class Pool from 2-4:15 p.m., with Mayor Berry Vrbanovic attending. 

Friday  

Boating Safety:  PFD Lifejacket clinic at Forest Heights Pool 

Choose it. Use it.  Always wear a life jacket when on a boat. 

Saturday  

Alcohol & Substance Use:  Stay sober, stay safe at Kiwanis Pool 

Alcohol consumption is a factor in many water-related fatalities. Both alcohol and cannabis use impair balance, judgment, and reflexes. Stay sober when in, on or around the water. 

Information and resources will be provided at all indoor and outdoor pools all week. Drowning is fast and silent, not like in the movies. Whether you are on a boat, in a swimming pool, or near open water, knowing what to do before, or when, something happens can save a life – yours or someone else’s. Take a learn-to-swim, lifesaving, or first aid class today.  

For more information including safety tips, visit www.kitchener.ca/pools