Prioritizing water safety: Lifejackets save lives

Jude Osmond

Multiple drownings have occurred in the region in recent years, and safety on the water is of great importance during the hot summer months. Accidents on the water can happen in the blink of an eye, and it can be too late; that’s how quickly the situation can change. 

According to Canada's Safety Council, an average of 525 Canadians lose their lives to water-related injuries each year. Of these, approximately 167 are from boating incidents.

There are ways to stay safe on the water that can help prevent accidents, and it starts with wearing a lifejacket. A lifejacket might not be the most fashionable accessory, but it saves lives every summer. There is a law in Canada that requires people to wear a lifejacket when taking part in deep-water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing.

Bettyna Bélizaire, the Chair of the Recreation, Sports and Community Development Committee, urges people to wear their lifejackets when going out on any body of water, and to ensure they understand their own capabilities before entering the water.

All paddleboards and kayaks come with the necessary safety equipment, including lifejackets, flare guns, whistles, and ropes. Paddleboards also have ropes that can be tied around the ankle in case of a fall. “Make sure you have all the equipment that comes with a paddleboard or kayak before heading out,” said Bélizaire.

Summer is on the verge of arrival, bringing nice, hot weather. However, the water in lakes and ponds is still extremely cold at this time of year and doesn’t warm up enough to swim in until late June and July. Wetsuits are important for maintaining body temperature in an emergency, as they provide an extra layer of insulation in the cold water.

Retired kitesurfing instructor Louis Levert mentioned that they always wear wetsuits while kitesurfing around this time of year to protect against the cold-water temperatures. “We wear thermal wetsuits to preserve our body heat,” he said.

Water activities are becoming increasingly popular each summer, so it is imperative to prioritize water safety in order to prevent accidents. Staying safe should be everyone's priority as soon as they enter the water.

For a safe summer on the water, lifejackets are a must. Photo : Courtesy City of Gatineau