Published on July 23, 2025

Summer Water Safety

Water safety awareness is important at this time of year with more people enjoying activities in and around water. Drowning is the third-leading cause of injury related death for Canadian children under 14 years of age, and statistics show that children under 12, boaters, young men and seniors 65+ are at greatest risk.

Even one drowning is one too many.

Actively Supervise Children in Water

In Alberta, the supervisor being absent or distracted is 100 per cent of the risk factors associated with children drowning under the age of five. Whether it's a pool, bathtub, water park or beach; always watch children actively around water — even if they can swim. Remind your children and young adults frequently about water safety; it could save a life.

Kid doing a cannonball into water

Water Safety Tips:

Always directly supervise children around the water—if you are not within arms’ reach, you’ve gone too far.
Always wear a lifejacket when on a boat.
Alcohol consumption is a factor in many water related fatalities. Both alcohol and cannabis use impair balance, judgment, and reflexes. Stay sober when in, on or around the water.
Make smart choices before going in, on or around the water.
Consider requiring all non-swimmers to wear a lifejacket to keep them at the surface to assist you while supervising. Remember: lifejackets and other flotation devices are a layer of protection, but do not replace adult supervision.
Backyard pools are especially dangerous for small children. Ensure adequate barriers are in place such as four-sided fencing (recommended at least 1.8 metres in height as per National Building Code standards) along with a self-closing, self-latching gate.
Swimming skills need to be taught. Most drownings occur close to safety – can you survive an accidental or unintentional fall into the water? Basic swimming abilities can help save your life. Learn more about the City’s Aquatic's Programs.
You can save a life! Yours, and someone else’s. Take a learn-to-swim, lifesaving or first aid class today.

National Drowning Prevention Week (July 20-26)
The third week in July is designated as National Drowning Prevention Week when Canada’s drowning rate is at its highest. The goal is to build awareness and educate communities about drowning prevention.

Two people paddle boarding at sunset

COLD Water Awareness - Lakes, Rivers and Streams

All bodies of water in St. Albert area, including Big Lake and Sturgeon River, are considered “cold water.” When you are in these types of bodies of water, your skin and blood temperature in your arms and legs quickly drops. As a result, you may have trouble breathing, be unable to use your hands (or major muscle groups) and become at risk of hypothermia when unexpected immersion occurs.

When in water always remember to: