OPP out with reminder to stay safe on the water

We're in for another beautiful sunny, summer weekend and that has Ontario Provincial Police sharing a reminder to stay safe when on and around the water.

MaryKate Townsend is with the Canadian Drowning Prevention Coalition and says there are many things we can do to avoid tragedy.

“Just simple things like wearing a life jacket while you're on the boat, having a buddy system while you're swimming, being mindful of the water temperatures and weather conditions are all very important safety features. You need to be aware of your surroundings at all times.”

Briar McCaw with the Elgin County Drowning Prevention Council echos this message saying it's also important to be actively watching any little ones swimming. This includes putting the phone down. 

“Really understand, is it a wavy day on the beach today and I'm only a semi-good swimmer so I'm only going to go up to my waist, and really also understanding the water safety portion too, know the rules of the pool, know the rules of the beach, know who you can go to for help.”

This message comes the same week OPP recovered the body of a  21-year-old man from Mississauga, who drowned while out for a swim in the Guelph Lake Conservation Area.

The full message can be heard below.