06/25/2019
Summer is here!
As Canadians, we're experts at making the most out of warm weather, and with months of sunshine in the forecast, it's finally time to get out on the water. But whether you’re hitting the beach or lounging near a backyard pool, it's important not to let your guard down.
At the Canadian Red Cross, we want your summer to be as safe as it is fun. Our safety experts have a list of important tips to bear in mind to keep you and your family safe this summer.
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can lead to unsafe situations, as can thunderstorms and inclement weather. Be sure to hydrate and seek shelter from the heat, stay out of the water during stormy weather, and keep the boat docked upon any sign of thunder, lightning and violent winds.
Boats are vehicles: treat them as such. If you’re boating, you should save your drinks for later. A recent study shows that 37% of Canadians admit to consuming alcohol every time they boat; alcohol is present in almost half of all recreational boating fatalities. Boating and drinking can be deadly.
Having enough lifejackets or personal flotation devices (PFD) for everyone on board the boat is a good start, but emergencies happen quickly. The only way to be 100% safe is to always wear your lifejacket or PFD.
When it comes to capsizing, collisions or passengers falling overboard, arm’s reach isn’t close enough. In pools, lakes and other bodies of water, weak and non-swimmers and children are always encouraged to wear a lifejacket or PFD.
Do you know the difference?
Lifejacket: Designed to turn the wearer onto their back, even when unconscious. Available in three Canadian-approved types. Must be red, yellow or orange for visibility.
Personal Flotation Device: For recreational use only. Designed to keep you afloat. Smaller than a lifejacket, and sometimes tailored to specific activities like water sports and kayaking.
An average of 35 children 14-or-under drown every year. 40% of child drownings happen in water less than one metre deep, and 90% of children who drown in shallow water are unsupervised. When it comes to water safety, never leave your child unattended, not even for a second. It’s not enough to be nearby – reading a book, texting or browsing on your phone is not active supervision.
The Canadian Red Cross has been teaching Canadians how to swim for close to 75 years. With options for swimmers of all ages and skill levels, our worldwide recognized classes will teach you the basics of water safety and swimming skills. Already a great swimmer? Consider taking a First Aid & CPR course to gain the skills to handle almost any emergency.
Whether you’re a strong swimmer or not, it’s important to be mindful when swimming, especially in open water. Waves can go from calm to calamitous in an instant, so be sure to stay close enough to the shore should an emergency happy. If they can’t see you, they can’t save you.
Whether on the water or by the poolside, ensure there are first aid kits nearby, easily accessible throwing assists and an emergency plan should something unforeseen arise. The Red Cross First Aid App is another worthwhile free resource, putting simple life-saving advice in the palm of your hands.
