Premier Declares National Drowning Prevention Week

Premier Darrell Dexter has declared July 19-25, National Drowning Prevention Week in Nova Scotia.

"Far too many accidents and deaths occur each summer because of drowning," said Premier Dexter. "I hope this week serves as a reminder to all of us about the importance of water safety."

Drowning is the third-leading cause of unintentional deaths for Canadians under the age of 60.

"We work hard year-round to educate people about water smart activities so they can make wise decisions when swimming and boating," said Krista Elvidge, president of the Nova Scotia Lifesaving Society.

National Drowning Prevention Week in Nova Scotia is organized by the provincial branch of the Lifesaving Society. The Lifesaving Society urges Nova Scotians to:

• take a lifesaving course and learn how to reduce the risk of drowning
• make sure everyone in the family can achieve the Canadian Swim to Survive standard, which includes being able to surface after falling in deep water, tread water for one minute, and swim 50 meters
• always wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when boating
• always closely supervise children. Keep them within arms' reach and, whenever possible, chose to swim in an area supervised by a lifeguard

The society also reminds Nova Scotians not to consume alcohol while operating a boat.

For more information about water safety, visit www.lifesavingsociety.ns.ca .