The young boy playing in the kiddie pool in his backyard. The teenager learning to water ski for the first time. The young woman leaping from the top of a cliff into the ocean.
We all need to be cautious while enjoying the water this summer.
The B.C. Coroners Service is reminding everyone to be careful near the water after four separate drowning deaths occurred in B.C between July 1 and 5.
Drowning doesn't discriminate - from toddlers to seniors, anyone can be overcome in the water if they're inexperienced or in unfamiliar waters.
As parents, we're told that our children can drown in less than six centimetres of water.
The B.C. Coroners Service recommends keeping all pre-school-aged children within an arms' length of a responsible adult when they're in or near water.
Parents of young children are often vigilant, but as kids gain independence, their families tend to give them more leeway.
Independence is a good thing, and parents shouldn't be tethered to their children at all times for fear of what terrible things might happen. Part of allowing children to be more independent includes teaching them how to be safe on their own.
Learning important safety techniques - such as wearing properly fitting personal flotation devices on boats, being aware of water conditions, avoiding alcohol when you plan to swim and never diving into unfamiliar water - can save lives.
And being safe and aware of possible dangers doesn't have to impede summertime fun - in fact, it will likely prolong it by preventing tragedies.
For more on how to be safe in and on the water, and for courses on water safety, go to www.lifesaving.bc.ca/ watersmart and www.redcross.ca/whatwe-do/swimming-and-water-safety.
