Through public education, we can help increase awareness of drowning prevention programs and reduce the number of drowning and near-drowning incidents in Canada.

Tragically, drowning is the third leading cause of accidental deaths in Canada. More than 600 Canadians die every year in water-related incidents. Drowning in areas supervised by lifeguards are a rare occurrence. Unfortunately, drowning and water-related injuries in unsupervised areas remain a serious problem. Sadly, most of these deaths are preventable.

• A small child can drown in only a few inches of water, enough to cover the mouth and nose.
• Drowning can occur in less time than it takes to read this message.
• Only 18% of all toddlers who die from water-related deaths are known to be swimming or playing in the water. 65% were only playing or walking near the water.
• Bathtubs account for 55% of all infant drownings.
• 35% of toddler drownings occur in private swimming pools.
• 79% of drowning casualties were male
• 94% of 15 to 19 year old’s who drown were not wearing lifejackets
• Alcohol was consumed in nearly half of drownings for people aged 20 to 34 years old
• 81% were not wearing a lifejacket
• 65% of boating-related drownings occurred in cold water (below 15 degrees Celsius)

Drowning is Preventable!

Watch for National Drowning Prevention Week activities at the Kinsmen Sportsplex and Phyllis Dewar Outdoor pool in July.

Additional Links:

• Lifesaving Society, Saskatchewan Branch
• Canadian Drowning Report, 2019
• Canadian Red Cross