NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to remind all residents and visitors to the beach to be vigilant and safe while in and near the water.
We encourage all beach users to take personal responsibility for ensuring water safety for themselves and their children. Public education, law enforcement efforts and individual awareness regarding water safety issues will all help reduce drownings.
Here are some tips and safe swimming practices:
- Swim in areas that are designated for swimming only. Swim with a buddy and never alone.
- Never leave a young child unattended near water, or leave them in the care of another child.
- Provide close and constant attention to children regardless of how shallow the water.
- Avoid distractions such as your cellphone.
- Do not rely on the use of water wings, or other inflatable toys to replace adult supervision.
- Know your own limitations.
- Avoid consuming alcohol or other impairing substances that may affect your judgment.
- If your child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count.
- Call 911 for emergency services.
Basic safety practices such as learning to swim at an early age, wearing a lifejacket or a PFD while on or near the water, adult supervision of children while swimming, and not drinking and swimming can make the difference between surviving, or not. Young children or non-swimmers should wear a PFD while near the water.
The OPP plays a role in preventing drownings through proactive patrols of 110,398 square kilometres of waterways. The OPP combines its law enforcement efforts with public education in order to improve both marine and water safety. An essential part of the enforcement job is to save lives and reduce injuries on our waterways.
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