Water Safety

N.B. For information on Quality of Water, Water Testing,and Blue -green Algae see Lake Steward’s Notes.

From the Canadian Red Cross

Swimming

• Preparation and prevention is the key to safe, enjoyable water related activity.
• Be aware of your limitations. Don’t go beyond your ability.
• Learn proper swimming and safety techniques by enrolling children in Canadian Red Cross water safety classes.
• Children should wear a PFD when they are in, on and around the water – no matter how shallow.
• Supervision around the water is a full-time job, with no time off.
• Parents need to set an example by wearing PFDs and demonstrating water safe behaviour.
• Know the signs of hypothermia.

Diving

• Neck and back injuries are common after diving incidents and can result in permanent paralysis.
• One of the major causes of spinal injuries is drinking and diving. Young men are at greatest risk.
• The majority of backyard pools are NOT designed for diving.
• Never dive into above ground pools.
• Think before you dive.
• Ensure water depth is at least 10 feet deep. Remember the depth of lakes or oceans can change due to tides or seasons.
• Ensure water is deep enough for the entire path of the dive, and that no rocks or debris are in the way. The length of a typical dive depends on a variety of factors, such as height of dive and size of diver.

PFD – Personal Flotation Device

For the Red Cross PFD Checklist, click HERE.