City of Burlington joins the Lifesaving Society in recognizing Drowning Prevention Week

July 19 to 25 is Drowning Prevention Week, an annual campaign led by the Lifesaving Society to raise awareness about water safety and help prevent drowning.

The City of Burlington is proud to support this important initiative by highlighting opportunities for residents to learn to swim, build their water safety knowledge and help keep themselves and others safe in and around the water.

Learn to swim with the City of Burlington

Learning to swim can save your life. The City of Burlington offers swimming lessons for all ages and abilities through the Swim for Life™ learn-to-swim program. Residents can also continue developing their skills through a variety of aquatic programs designed to build strength, endurance and confidence in the water.

Community members aged 10 and older can consider enrolling in the City's Aquatic Lifesaving Leadership courses, which provide the foundation for becoming a lifeguard.

For information about swimming and aquatic programs, visit: burlington.ca/swim

Supporting water safety in Burlington

Burlington Fire Department regularly conducts specialized water rescue training as part of its emergency preparedness training program. These exercises help firefighters maintain the skills and readiness needed to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies on or near the water.

The City's certified lifeguards are also an essential part of Burlington's water safety network. They are trained to respond quickly in emergency situations and are prepared to provide lifesaving care, including CPR, automated external defibrillator (AED) use and oxygen therapy.

The City thanks our emergency responders and lifeguards for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to supporting water safety in Burlington.

Water safety tips:

• Obey all posted signs and safety flags. They are in place to alert swimmers to hazards such as dangerous currents, changing water conditions or beach closures.

• Check the weather forecast heading out. Strong winds, lightning and changing weather conditions can quickly create unsafe swimming conditions.

• Always supervise children closely and stay within arm's reach of young or inexperienced swimmers.

• Learn to swim and continue building your swimming skills throughout your life.

• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device when boating, paddling or participating in water sports.

• Swim with a buddy whenever possible and choose areas where lifeguards are on duty.

• Stay sober when in, on or around the water.

• Learn basic first aid and CPR so you're prepared to respond in an emergency. Call 911 immediately if someone is in distress.

For more information about Drowning Prevention Week, visit: lifesavingsociety.com

The City’s Brant St Pier will be lit blue during Drowning Prevention Week to shine a light on this important cause.

Stay informed on fire and life safety news and tips by subscribing at burlington.ca/subscribe and follow the Fire Department on X (@BurlingtonFire), Instagram (@burlfiredept), and Facebook (BurlingtonFireDept).