Water safety isn’t just about pools – it also encompasses bathtubs, lakes, ponds, and beaches. Over 500 Canadians die each year as a result of water-related accidents. The most commonly affected age group is children aged 1-4 years, involving backyard pools. Adequate supervisions is always required when you have a backyard or above-ground pool. The same goes for trips to the cabin or lake. And always remember that it is only safe to boat sober. Accidents that could have ended with a positive outcome hav unfortunately become fatalities when alcohol or marijuana is a factor.

The Red Cross offers valuable free resources about water safety and drowning prevention: www.redcross.ca