There have been more drownings of children six-years-old and under this year than normal.
This according to Lifesaving Society Saskatchewan CEO Shelby Rushton who added the number of drownings overall has remained about average.
“Looking at this time last year, between June and the August long weekend, there were four fatal drownings and they were all adult males,” she said. “This year, between June and August, we’ve had four child drownings, six years and under, plus an 18-year-old, plus a 42-year-old.”
Rushton said she’s not exactly certain why more children have drowned this summer but the shutdown caused by COVID-19 may be a factor.
“I wish I had a good answer for that (why more children have drowned this year). I would like to see parents ensuring that they are within arm’s reach of their children. I think people are just so excited to get out of their houses because we’ve been locked down for so long because of the pandemic.”
She also said parents who are at the lake this year may be used to having a lifeguard on duty when letting their kids swim but, because of social-distancing, many are staying away from pools where professional supervision is constant.
Rushton’s organization is a non-profit aimed at preventing drowning and other water-related injuries.
She is urging parents to keep a watchful eye on their children when in and around water.
“Stay within arm’s reach of your toddlers at all times, as well as get rid of distractions. So, stay off your phone and actually directly supervising your children. Put that book down and watch your children. Have a buddy-system with fellow parents or your spouse.”
Rushton also said inflatable toys aren’t a good idea as they can be swept away in the wind farther than children should be in the water.