Join Free City-wide Swim Lesson this National Drowning Prevention Week

Knowing how to swim is great for pool parties and visits to the beach, but more importantly, it’s a skill that could save your life. July 17 to 23, 2022 is National Drowning Prevention Week and there is no better time to learn to swim or brush up on your water safety knowledge. The City of Mississauga is providing residents with the opportunity to learn the basics of swimming for free and encouraging those who participate in water activities, like swimming, fishing and boating, to do so safely.

According to the Lifesaving Society, a national charitable organization that works to prevent drowning and water-related injuries, there are approximately 500 water-related fatalities in Canada each year. Thirty-four per cent of these deaths occur in lakes or ponds and 29 per cent in rivers. Additionally, 66 per cent of these drownings take place during the warmer months between May and September.

Learn to Swim at the City

Free City-wide Swim Lesson
Wednesday, July 20
3-4 p.m.
All City pools (indoor and outdoor)

It’s important to develop confidence in the water and just as important that you and your children learn basic swimming and water safety skills that will help prevent drowning. During this one-hour experience, lifeguards and instructors will teach swimming basics, provide free swim assessments and encourage water-smart behaviour. Participants must register either in-person or online at activemississauga.ca (Search Citywide FREE Swim Lesson).

Safety Measures When Enjoying the Water

Even if you’re an experienced swimmer, stay alert, take precautions, understand the risk factors and follow all safety guidelines to prevent injury or accidents:

Wear a lifejacket – Wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) when on a boat. The law requires that a PFD be on board for each person on a boat. In addition, inexperienced swimmers should wear them at all times when swimming in pools or other bodies of water.

Swim with a buddy – It’s important to always have someone swim with you, where possible, in case something happens. Let someone know when, where and how long you plan on swimming. When you are done swimming, check in with them to let them know you are safe.

Keep children within arm’s reach – Protect children from drowning by actively supervising them when they are in or around water. Keep them within reach in case something happens, so you are close enough to help.

Be aware of your surroundings –It’s always important to know your surroundings at all times and to familiarize yourself with the water conditions. For a sense of security and safety, swim in zones that are supervised by lifeguards, such as one of the City’s indoor pools and seven outdoor pools.

For more information on City drop-in swim programs, swimming lessons, CPR and first aid classes and more, visit mississauga.ca/swimming.

Tags

• Public Safety
• Recreation and Sports