RCMP stress water safety after ‘unprecedented’ number of drownings
Posted Aug 26, 2015 07:39:48 AM.
Last Updated Aug 26, 2015 08:57:22 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
As lifeguard supervision wraps up Monday at HRM’s beaches, the RCMP have issued a safety reminder for those wanting to enjoy Nova Scotia’s ocean, lakes and rivers.
They recommend planning ahead by checking weather conditions, wearing a life jacket, and avoiding alcohol.
They also say if you get caught in a current, don’t panic and don’t try to swim against it, instead swim to the side.
So far this month, emergency crews have responded to seven water-related deaths.
RCMP’s Cpl. Andrew Joyce says first responders are personally impacted by each tragedy.
“We’ve seen an unprecedented number of drownings this summer in Nova Scotia and as first responders, we want citizens to practice water safety and encourage others to do the same,” he said.