Drowning Prevention Advice • Back to Main Page Learn to Swim: Take lessons. Check with your local pool for details or contact the Canadian Red Cross. 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.  To the top