Lifesaving Society drawing attention to a leading cause of death

The Lifesaving Society is hoping to help people safely enjoy a Manitoban summer.

Each year, an average of 22 people drown in Manitoba, and around 450 people die across Canada. Dr. Christopher Love, the Water Smart and Safety Management Coordinator, says drownings are preventable.

"Even one drowning death is too many," Love says, noting that precautions must be taken near water.

Indigenous, northern and new Canadians have disproportionately high drowning levels. All child drownings are the result of absent or distracted adult supervision.

During National Drowning Prevention Week from July 18-24, the Lifesaving Society is reminding people to be cautious near water, whether that is while swimming, fishing, boating, or something else. 

Their top tips include "layers of protection" which is staying sober, keeping young children at an arm's length and all having active supervision, always being with a buddy while in the water, and knowing how to swim. Life jackets are highly recommended. 

"Certainly, it is something that if you don't practice it, like any other skill, you are going to get rusty."

Love says many people, himself included, have not gotten into the water very much over the past year and a half and need to brush up on their skills and water fitness.

"It is totally understandable and it is not something anyone should be ashamed of. It is a reality we all have to deal with and if you didn't learn how to swim before, you can learn now."

Drownings have slightly lowered overall, but are increasing at private pools.