Water Safety

Water Safety

Tips for your next beach/lake visit

Southampton Beach at Sunset

  1. Wear sunscreen, and reapply as required (follow manufacturers instructions)
  2. Bring drinking water & sunglasses
  3. Swim Smart - swim with a buddy, be aware of the water depth, waves/currents and temperature
  4. Actively supervise children
  5. Bring your lifejacket/PFD 
  6. Consider taking CPR, First Aid, swimming lessons or a Swim to Survive program before your next trip

For more beach safety tips go to The Canadian Red Cross

 

Water Safety E-Newsletter

 

What is the difference between a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and a Lifejacket? … and what about Puddle Jumpers?

PFD, Life jacket, Puddle Jumper

  • A lifejacket will turn a person over from face-down to face-up, even if they are unconscious
    • Lifejackets are more buoyant than PFDs and are the best choice for weak swimmers
  • A personal floatation device (PFD) will keep a person floating, but not necessarily face-up
    • A PFD is generally less bulky and more comfortable than a lifejacket, allowing for greater movement
  • Unlike lifejackets and PFDs, puddle jumpers are not approved by Transport Canada and are not suitable for boating use

Look for a lifejacket or PFD with a label that says the device has been approved by any of the organizations below:

  • Transport Canada
  • Canadian Coast Guard
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Check this link for more info on Lifejackets and PFDs - Canadian Red Cross

Canadian Drowning Prevention Plan

Canadian Drowning Prevention Plan 2022

 

Winter Water Safety

Going to be on the ice this Winter? Whether you are planning to snowshoe, cross-country ski, skate, snowmobile or ice fish here are some tips to stay safe: 

  • Be ice smart- Know the ice thickness before you head out, avoid travelling on ice at night, avoid slushy or recently refrozen ice, go with a buddy and let someone know your route and expected return time, bring proper equipment like a lifejacket/PFD and first aid kit
  • Before going out onto the ice, know what to do if you break through What you need to know if you fall through the ice - Canadian Red Cross Blog

Thin Ice Poster

 Ice Thickness - ! Thin Ice Poster (lifesavingsociety.com)

 

 

For Snowmobiling tips: Snowmobiling on ice - Canadian Red Cross

 

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