2023 National Drowning Prevention Week: July 16-22

Prince Albert, SK – Mayor Greg Dionne has proclaimed July 16^th to 22^nd, 2023, National Drowning Prevention Week in the City of Prince Albert. National Drowning Prevention Week is one of the Lifesaving Society’s leading public education initiatives, with events taking place nationwide to focus media and community attention on the drowning problem and prevention.

Lifeguards at the Kinsmen Water Park have planned a lot of activities in collaboration with the Lifesaving Society – Saskatchewan Branch, including lifeguard rescue demonstrations, the Swim to Survive challenge, “Dress like a Lifeguard” activities, and more!

Each day has a special theme and activity:

Monday, July 17:                 Swim with a Buddy Day
Tuesday, July 18:                Open Water Safety Day  - Featuring Prince Albert Fire Department                                                                      Wednesday, July 19:           Within Arms’ Reach/Supervision Day
Thursday, July 20:               Swim to Survive Day - Featuring Parkland Ambulance
Friday, July 21:                     Sun Smart Day  - Featuring Sun Smart Saskatchewan

Kinsmen Water Park lifeguards have provided some great reminders for everyone when they are around the water this summer:

• Wear a lifejacket: Both children and adults should wear lifejackets in deep or unsafe waters, whether at the beach or in your backyard.
• Swim with a buddy! It’s safer and more fun to swim with others.
• Stay within arms’ reach! Make sure to pay special attention to children when near the water and ensure they stay within arms’ reach.
• Swim to Survive: Learn to swim and practice your skills!
• Alcohol is a leading cause of drowning; take care to drink responsibly around the water and avoid swimming when under the influence.
• There’s nothing better than a nice day on the boat, but remember to exercise caution and take proper safety precautions when boating, including wearing lifejackets, bringing a cell phone in case of emergencies, and check the weather before heading out.
• Summer means beach days, and beach days mean floaties shaped like giant pieces of pizza! When riding that pizza, however, pay attention to your surroundings and ensure that you stay where you can touch – floating away is easier than you think!
• Make sure you know your children’s limits around the water. Stay where you feel comfortable and can touch, wear a lifejacket, and take a break from swimming if you feel tired.
• Be careful getting a tan. Skin damage is a real danger from the sun, so make sure you slip on some clothing, slap on a hat, slop on some sunscreen, seek shade, and slide on some sunglasses!

For information from the Canadian and Saskatchewan Reports, please visit: https://www.lifesaving.ca/national-drowning-report.php

The lifeguards and staff at the KWP hope you have a safe, happy, and healthy summer around the water and beyond!

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For more information, please contact:

Lauren Haubrich                                                     
Recreation Coordinator                                          
306-953-4835                                                          
lhaubrich@citypa.com