Local Lifeguards to share Water Safety Messages by Swimming to Chantry Island

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With the number of drownings in recent weeks across Ontario, here in Saugeen Shores we are responding in a variety of different ways: As a lakefront community with many visitors in the summer months it is important that we educate & assist where we can.

The Centennial Pool Staff have been busy informing and educating our residents with water safety programs at the pool and special events for the community.

If you were down on the beach in July, you would have been invited to do a swim to survive test with our local lifeguards. This swim test is a national standard that has been develop through research.

Based on the drowning statistics, it was noted that many drowning victims are within 25m from shore and were not intending in going in the water. All can participate in the test which consists of rolling in the water (a disorienting skill) righting themselves and treading water 1 min and swimming 50m.

The lifeguards also focused on informing parents that "you are your children’s' lifeguard and for those that can't swim you should always be within arms reach". Swimming lessons are also a great way for kids and adults to get comfortable in the water while learning water safety techniques that could save themselves or others.

The lifeguards will be Swimming to Chantry Island this summer on Sept 4, 2010 (Rain Date Sept 5) to help provide awareness of water safety. This initiative is two fold; to highlight the need for Aquatics in Saugeen Shores as a valuable recreation activity and to raise money for the Lifesaving Society to assist in drowning prevention. Som if a Lifeguard knocks on your door asking for a donation, please give what you can.

We will be starting at the beach at Gerry’s Fries

10:30 – 11:30 Swim

11:30 Swim to Survive Testing

          Face Painting

          Sand-Sculpture Competition

Prizes, and fun for all ages

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Wednesday, August 25, 2010