Did you know, based on recent Red Cross drowning research, lifejackets were properly worn in only 12 per cent of boating-related fatalities?
On Monday, May 11, the Canadian Red Cross participated in the fourth annual
National Lifejacket and Swim Day on the Hill in Ottawa – an event that brings together Parliamentarians, injury prevention, and swimming organizations, to talk about the importance of lifejacket use in drowning prevention.
Buckles teaching kids the importance of wearing a lifejacket.
Water Safety fun on Parliament Hill
MPs gather in front of Parliament for a group photo with Buckles and National Lifejacket and Swim Day participants
Rick Caissie, Director, Prevention and Safety, Canadian Red Cross, delivers remarks on the importance of lifejackets and water safety knowledge.
The event, which takes place in advance of the first long weekend of summer, highlights the need for education around swimming and boating safety. Buckles, the Canadian Red Cross water safety mascot, was present at the event to teach kids why it’s so important to wear their lifejacket. Erika Seltenreich-Hodgson, of the Pan Am Swim Team, and Camille Berube, of the Para Pan Am Swim Team, also spoke to the kids regarding the important role that swimming has played in their lives.
Other attendees included Lifesaving Society Canada, YMCA Canada, Scouts Canada, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Swimming Canada, and several MPs.
As today marks National Lifejacket Day, we are reminding Canadians that wearing a lifejacket save lives. Help us spread the word – post a throwback photo of you in your lifejacket and hashtag
#lifejacketliving. Make this summer a safe one - your post could help save a life.