Events planned at Kitchener pools for Drowning Prevention Week

The City of Kitchener is joining a nationwide initiative by hosting a series of water safety events and educational activities for the public at its indoor and outdoor pools.

It’s all part of National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW). The Lifesaving Society chooses the third week of July to raise awareness and raise awareness of the dangers of drowning and promote safety education. This year’s campaign focuses on educating parents about the risks that lead to nonfatal drowning and the steps they can take to protect their families.

According to the Lifesaving Society of Ontario, drowning remains a major hazard for young children in Canada. It is the leading cause of unintentional injury death in children ages one to four and the second leading cause of preventable death in children under 10.

Children in Ontario are also disproportionately affected by non-fatal drowning incidents.

Here is a list of events in Kitchener for NDPW:

Tuesday

Backyard Pool and Open Water Safety at Breithaupt Recreation Centre

• Learn how to make smart choices before going in, on or around the water.

Wednesday

Swimming for Survival: Learn the Roll, Kick and Swim Technique – Facebook Live Event

• In most drowning incidents, the victim did not intend to enter the water and was often near safety. Could you survive a sudden and unexpected fall into the water?

Thursday

At Your Fingertips: Active Supervision of Children’s Clinic at Grand River Recreation Complex

• Always keep a close eye on children near water. If you’re not within arm’s reach, you’re too far away.
• Free public swimming at the Harry Class Pool from 2pm to 4.15pm, attended by Mayor Berry Vrbanovic.

Friday

Boating Safety: PFD Life Jacket Clinic at Forest Heights Pool

Saturday

Alcohol and Drug Use: Stay Sober and Safe at the Kiwanis Pool

• Alcohol consumption is a factor in many water-related deaths. Both alcohol and cannabis affect balance, judgment and reflexes.

Information and resources are available at all indoor and outdoor pools throughout the week.

Visit the City of Kitchener website for more information and safety tips.