Kawartha Lakes Fire, Paramedic and Police Services encouraging water safety this summer

Kawartha Lakes Fire, Paramedic and Police Services encouraging water safety this summer

KAWARTHA LAKES— Summer is here and one of the best parts of being in Kawartha Lakes is enjoying our many lakes and rivers. However, being near the water also requires attention to safety. This summer, City of Kawartha Lakes first responders wish to remind the public about the following water safety tips:

• A personal floatation device (PFD) should be worn at all times when using any type of watercraft, whether or not it is motorized. Even the use of a stand-up paddleboard on a calm day can become dangerous if the paddler falls into a weedy area and experiences entanglement and panic. Furthermore, if a breeze picks up, the board can be carried beyond reach very quickly;
• Never underestimate the power of current. Swimmers and waders can be swept away in an instant, particularly when caught by the current in rivers or in abrupt drop-offs;
• Jumping or diving from cliffs and bridges is extremely dangerous as underwater hazards such as logs, sunken vehicles, rocks and other debris may exist. The force of hitting the water can sometimes result in the swimmer losing their breath and possibly causing internal injuries that may immobilize them;
• Swimming near any kind of dam, waterfall and hydro-generating station presents many unseen hazards. The surface of the water may appear calm but undertows could exist. When caught in an undertow, a swimmer might not be able to escape and may be pulled under the surface of the water. The areas around hydro dams are especially dangerous because water flow and current can increase without notice;
• Only participate in recreational water sports during daylight hours. Any person who is waterskiing, wakeboarding, etc. must wear an approved PFD and should review hand signals with the boat operator. Never leave the dock without a spotter in the boat and always let go of the tow rope after falling. Never climb into a boat from the water unless the propeller is stopped;
• Always supervise children who are in and around water. Ensure that they are wearing a proper fitting PFD.

All Kawartha Lakes first responders want to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer.

For more swimming, boating and water safety tips visit http://www.redcross.ca/training-and-certification/swimming-and-water-safety-tips-and-resources/swimming--boating-and-water-safety-tips.

For more information please contact:

Cheri Davidson
Manager of Communications, Advertising and Marketing
705-324-9411 extension 1355
cdavidson@city.kawarthalakes.on.ca