National Drowning Prevention Week: July 16 - 22

July 16, 2023

National Drowning Prevention Week takes place July 16-22, and the Aquatics team at the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre have organized a variety of fun and educational activities for the community.

Sunday, July 16, is themed The Drowning Problem. At the Rec Centre there will be a chance to complete the Safe Swimmer Pledge for entries into a raffle, pick up a Water Smart activity book, and take part in a Water Smart Safe or Sorry game.

Monday, July 17, is themed Supervise Children. Copies of the Backyard Pool Safety Checklist will be available at the Rec Centre. There will be a 12-second rule activity found in the Water Smart Activity Guide and a Play Water Smart Safe or Sorry game at the pool. 

Tuesday, July 18, is themed Boating Safety. The Rec Centre will be hosting a lifejacket clinic and children aged 3-12 who select appropriately sized lifejackets will receive free admission to the pool during family swim. Boat Safety & Safety Inspection on Lifejackets checklists will be available at the front desk, and there will be a capsizing boat Water Smart activity, a Safe or Sorry game and a Build a Boat relay race.

Wednesday, July 19, is all about Learn to Swim. Lifeguards at the Rec Centre will watch patrons do their Swim to Survive skills (roll into deep water, tread water for one minute, and swim 50 metres) and give out certificates.

Thursday, July 20, is themed Stay Sober In, On and Around Water. Build a boat competition: build a miniature boat and bring it to the pool. If your boat floats you will get a raffle entry for a chance to win a prize. There is also a make the boat safe activity. 

Friday, July 21, is themed Open Water Safety. Bring a buddy to the pool for 2-for-1 admission and take part in the buddy relay race. The Rec Centre will be hosting a Water Safety Scavenger Hunt, and a Currents and Rough Water Water Smart Activity.

Saturday, July 22 is themed You Can Save a Life! Contact the Rec Centre to learn more about our aquatic programming. Learn lifesaving skills, like how to use the ladder approach and practice hitting a target with rescue aids. 

For further information, contact the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre at 780-865-4412. Follow the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Facebook Page for daily updates during National Drowning Prevention Week July 16 - 22.