Alberta Blue Cross and the Alberta Lifesaving Society have shared several tips for you to keep in mind whenever you find yourself on the water this summer.
Citing the 2024 National Drowning Report, officials at the Blue Cross say drowning is a “silent and swift” threat that claims the lives of 450 Canadians per year – deaths they say are often preventable through simple, proactive practices.
“This summer, several Albertans will likely lose their lives to drowning,” the Blue Cross said in a release.
National Drowning Prevention Week occurs every year during the third week of July – Canada’s peak drowning period. The week aims to promote the need for individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to take action in saving lives in and around the water.
The week will run from July 20th to the 26th, with each day having its own theme and call to action.
The 20th will emphasize the difference between fatal and non-fatal drowning. According to the Blue Cross, drowning doesn’t always look like an emergency, so swimming with a buddy, and keeping an eye on one another is critical in having a safe and fun time in the waves.
July 21st and 22nd will focus on the unique risks presented by the open water and in the pool, respectively. The Blue Cross says 67 per cent of drownings occur in natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, and oceans, so the buddy system applies here too, and in the pool, lifeguards are your best friend.
The 23rd will focus on swimming to survive skills. Officials suggest that many drowning victims never intended to enter the water, so swimmers are encouraged to practice three simple techniques that could save your life during an accident – rolling into deep water to practice recovery and reorientation, treading water for one minute to practice supporting yourself above the water, and swimming 50 metres to build up the endurance required to swim to safety.
The 2025 Alberta Drowning Report indicates that from 2017 to 2021, 100 per cent of fatal drownings involving children under the age of five occurred due to a lack, or distracted level of supervision, so July 24th will emphasize the importance of proper supervision for kids in and around the water.
On the 25th, substance use will be top of mind. According to the Blue Cross, alcohol consumption is a significant factor in many boating and swimming fatalities, so residents are asked to make smart choices, and save the party for after the water.
The week wraps up on July 26th with an emphasis on both boating safety and personal floatation device safety. The Blue Cross says 69 per cent of boating-related deaths involved capsizing or falling overboard between 2017 and 2021.
“Weak swimmers or non-swimmers should always wear a lifejacket when in, on, or around the water,” the Blue Cross says. “Better safe than sorry.”
Ultimately, the Blue Cross says safety starts with simple steps – reminding everyone to buckle up their lifejackets and looking out for each other on the water.
