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Drowning Prevention Advice
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Learn to Swim:
Once you have learned, remember:
- Never swim alone
- Swim parallel and close to shore when swimming in a lake or river
- Know your abilities and limitations when it comes to swimming.
Supervise toddlers and children at all times:
- Keep toddlers "within arms reach"
- A PFD (Personal Floatation Device) or a lifejacket is not a substitute for supervision
- Put toys away after use. Children may try to get toys from the water and risk falling in.
Feet first the first time:
- Always check the depth of the water the first time you enter
- Check for hazards on the bottom before jumping in
- Avoid diving in head first.
Swim in a supervised pool or waterfront:
- NLS (National Lifeguard Service) qualified lifeguards are trained to handle emergency situations. Check out Supervised Pools/ Waterfront (internal link to Supervised Pools/ Waterfront) for more details.
Learn CPR and First Aid:
- St. John's Ambulance or your local municipal pool
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or other drugs that may impair
- Keep a phone near by with emergency numbers and know your location (street address or closest intersection)
- Have lifesaving equipment and a first aid kit available and know how to use them.
- Be aware of cold water. Canadian lakes and rivers can be very cold even during our summer months. Cold water robs heat 25 times faster than air at the same temperature.
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