July and August mean sunny skies, busy beaches and lots of people out on the water. While rivers, lakes, and oceans may provide a way to escape the heat this summer, July and August also see a spike in drowning rates.
It only takes seconds to drown and most incidents are silent and unexpected, a far cry from the splashing and dramatic screams of Baywatch. A submersion incident where water has entered the lungs can cause complications – and even death- up to 72 hours after a swimmer has struggled in the water. With more than 400 drownings occurring annually in Canada, and 6 deaths in BC so far in 2018, do you know how to stay safe while you stay cool this summer?
National Drowning Prevention Week (DPW) – the third week of July – is an annual initiative of the Lifesaving Society aimed at reducing the number of water-related fatalities and drowning incidents by promoting water safety messages in the community.
Free Drop-In Programming | July 15-21, 2018
The UBC Aquatic Centre serves to educate the public on how to stay water safe this summer. learn how to keep yourself, your friends, and your family safe by joining us throughout the week.
Lobby Activities | Sunday & Monday, July 15 & 16
Drop-in anytime during these days for colouring in the lobby, and to learn more. There will be an information booth set up all week in the lobby where you can access more information. Learn more about our swim lessons for youth and adults in the meantime.
Water Wise | Tuesday, July 17
The Lifesaving Society’s WaterWise team will be on site promoting drowning prevention with fun activities and games! Learn about what it takes to become a lifeguard too! Find out 7 things you probably didn’t know about drowning.
PFD’s | Wednesday, July 18
Stop by to get your child properly fitted for a personal flotation device (PFD’s). Learn how to properly use a PFD and meet Buckles the Red Cross Water Safety Mascot! There will be lots of photo opportunities with Buckles! Use hashtag #NDPW2018 when sharing your photos online.
CPR & First Aid | Thursday, July 19
Join us during event hours with the whole family to learn the basics of CPR & First Aid, and to learn more about our CPR & First Aid training courses! We will have hands on demonstrations, and a chance for you to try out hands-only CPR! Challenge your friends to see who is doing the most effective CPR! A fun craft will be available for kids too!
Boating Safety | Friday, July 20
Learn how to boat safely this summer, and how to safely exit and enter the water when using canoes. Join us for wet activities in the pool, where you will learn how to safely enter and exit a canoe, as well as identify which items you should always bring before being on a boat! Stop by the lobby booth to learn how alcohol and boating don’t mix! Everyone who completes our boat safety circuit will receive a free pass to come back next time!
Swim to Survive & DPW Party | Saturday, July 21
Join us on the last day for our DPW closing party! The event will be a fun packed day for kids of all ages. We will be offering a discounted rate for everyone who comes through the door, as well as free passes to come back next time for all who participate in the Swim to Survive program: ROLL, TREAD, SWIM. Roll into deep water & orientate oneself at the surface, Tread water for 1 minute, Swim 50 metres to safety. Certificates of Completion will be provided for everyone who meets the standard!
Don’t miss out on this free drop-in programming to learn how to keep yourself, your friends, and your family safe at the UBC Aquatic Centre.