Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death in Ontario, with more than 200 drowning deaths occurring in the province each year. In fact, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children under the age of 10 in Ontario.
There are several factors that contribute to drowning in Ontario, including a lack of proper supervision, inadequate safety measures, and a lack of knowledge about water safety. For example, many drowning incidents occur when children are left unsupervised near bodies of water, such as pools, lakes, and rivers. In other cases, drowning can occur when individuals do not know how to swim or do not understand the dangers of certain bodies of water, such as currents or undertows.To prevent drownings in Ontario, it is important for individuals to take the following precautions:Always supervise children around bodies of water: Children should never be left alone near bodies of water, and adults should always be within arm’s reach of children who are swimming or playing in the water.Learn how to swim: Knowing how to swim is an essential skill that can help prevent drownings. Swimming lessons are available for people of all ages, and can help individuals feel more comfortable and confident in the water.Use lifejackets and other safety devices: Lifejackets and other flotation devices can help prevent drownings by providing added buoyancy and support. It is important to wear a properly fitted lifejacket when participating in water activities, such as boating or water skiing.Know the risks of different bodies of water: Different bodies of water can have different risks, such as currents or undertows. It is important to understand the risks associated with a particular body of water and take appropriate precautions.Know CPR: Knowing CPR can be a lifesaving skill in the event of a drowning incident. CPR can help restore breathing and circulation in someone who has drowned, increasing the chances of survival.By taking these precautions, individuals can help prevent drownings in Ontario and keep themselves and their loved ones safe around water.