As the summer months continue to approach, many have begun to open their backyard pools or have planned vacation time at their cottage properties. When temperatures rise, we typically resort to swimming, boating, fishing, participating in water sports or other water-related recreational activities. The desire to be in and around the water to cool down is a commonality, but we must also be conscious of the associated safety risks. 

May 1st to 7th, 2021 is Canada’s National Summer Safety Week. During this week, the Canada Safety Council and the Lifesaving Society would like to draw awareness to, “The other side of water safety – those who end up in the water despite having no intention to do so.” (Canada Safety Council & Lifesaving Society Canada, 2021). 

Learning to swim at a young age, or any age for that matter is an important safety technique and often means the difference between life and death. “Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death in the county and sadly many of those who did drown never intended to go into the water and were often found with 15 metres of safety.” (Wendy Schultenkamper, Director of Operations at Lifesaving Society Canada). 

A precautionary step to prevent the risks of drowning is to take swimming lessons. Whether you are in a small swimming pool or a large body of water, learning the basics can provide a more reactive response when emerging into the water. 

Recommendations from the Canada Safety Council & the Lifesaving Society Canada:

• Always swim with a buddy. 74 per cent of unintentional water entry deaths took place when the victims were alone. 
• Ensure children are always supervised around swimming pools and barrier-free bodies of water. 
• Always wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device when out on a boat. 

At TIM, we believe that learning to swim is essential. Having basic swimming skills could potentially save your life in the case of unintentional water entry. In regards to backyard pools, our home insurance covers personal liability, should there be a third-party injury. 

From yachts to sea-doos, recreational watercrafts we can provide insurance coverage to suit your individual needs. Contact us today.

• $1 million water skiing liability limit included
• Emergency expenses reimbursement – $1000 limit
• Personal effects – $2,000 limit for vessels under $250,000
• Personal effects – $10,000 limit for vessels over $250,000
• Medical payments – $5,000 limit
• Excess liability available up to $25M 
  
  

For more information read Canada Safety Council & Lifesaving Society Canada’s press release, Don’t Overlook Swimming Lessons