Lifesaving Society New Brunswick breaks down ways to make water safe
This is National Drowning Prevention Week.
With summer upon us and the heat that follows, the water seems more tempting than ever. As fun and refreshing as the water sounds on a sizzling day, there are risks involved, such as drowning.
Grégoire Cormier, the Program Manager for Lifesaving Society New Brunswick, describes drowning as a “quiet death.” Water blocks the airway, preventing a victim from breathing or yelling for help.
Cormier says there are two main ways to ensure safety around water.
“Wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD), and do not mix aquatic activities with drugs or alcohol,” said Cormier.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drowning is one of the leading causes of death. A 2025 report by the Lifesaving Society showed that 65 per cent of drownings in the Maritimes happen between May and Sept.
The same Lifesaving Society report found that 85 per cent of drownings are men and that most drownings occur in a river.
Just because you aren’t in the water doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk; 37 percent of drownings happen from boating, and 16 percent from land, ice, or air transportation.
Many drownings happen when a bystander attempts a rescue without proper techniques. Cormier says to stay on land and use a branch or rope. If you do need to get in the water, wear a life jacket to increase your chances of staying at the surface.
Cormier stressed the importance of supervision, whether by a lifeguard, a parent, or a swimming partner.
“Our statistics show that less than one per cent of any drowning in the country occurs where there’s lifeguard supervision,” said Cormier.
“If you’re out to go swim at the beach or at the end of the river, have at least one other person with you so that they can either assist or they can call for help.”
Drowning is not only quiet; it’s quick. WHO says a drowning can happen between 20 and 60 seconds. Cormier says close supervision can shave 10 to 20 seconds off a rescue.
Children are especially susceptible to drowning; 100 per cent of drownings of children ages five and under happen because of distracted or lack of supervision. This is why the Lifesaving Society recommends that a fence surround a house pool on all four sides, and that the house not be used as one of the fence sides.
“A patio door can easily be opened by a young toddler, which then can access the pool. It’s the assumption that ‘I have enough time to do whatever task that I want to do.’ Sometimes it’s even picking up the phone; just answering the text is just enough time to duck under and start drowning,” said Cormier.
Drowning can happen to anyone at any time. To ensure the safety of you and your friends, family, and peers, follow the safety precautions recommended by Cormier. There is more information on the Lifesaving Society website.
