Today officially marks the start of National Drowning Prevention Week. 

Every year, an estimated 236,000 people drown. This fact is being highlighted this week in order to make people aware that there is a very really possibility any time they get into the water. 

In Swift Current, 2023 has already seen a number of incidents, with some resulting in death or injury. 

Meghan Chrisholm and Shelly Mitchell of the Swift Current Aquatic Centre presented the national campaign before Swift Current city council. It is their goal to spread awareness of the common risks and factors while offering some knowledge on how to prevent incidents. 

"It is important to note that these statistics do not include the people who were seriously injured and nearly missed a fatal ending," remarked Chrisholm. "The recent Saskatchewan Drowning report has found that 70 per cent of drownings occur from the months of May to September."

The summer season of course sees more people approaching large bodies of water like lakes, rivers, and ponds. That 70 per cent breaks down into a 35 per cent incident rate at lakes or ponds, 19 per cent in rivers, 6 per cent in dugouts, 8 per cent in bathtubs, and 32 per cent in other compiled areas. 

"The main factor for children five and under is supervision was absent or distracted," said Mitchell. "For young adults, 15 to 34, life jackets were not worn 100 per cent of the time, 73 per cent of the time alcohol was consumed, and 30 per cent of the time they were swimming alone."

A pair of eyes and hands can be the biggest game changer during a drowning. Having somebody nearby who is confident and capable of pulling another person out of the water can make all the difference. Having someone who can call 911 or get assistance can be the difference between resuscitation, and complete loss of life.

The Swift Current Fairview Pool is hosting activities to promote water awareness this week. Folks interested can look to their website and social media for more information. 

Swift Current city council was receptive to the presentation and officially proclaimed July 16 through 22 as National Drowning Prevention Week in Swift Current.