Penticton RCMP will be holding a public water safety event as part of National Drowning Prevention Week on July 23.
National Drowning Prevention Week, which runs from July 20 to 26, is led by the Lifesaving Society of Canada and aims to raise awareness about water safety and reduce the number of preventable drownings each year.
"We want people to enjoy our beautiful lakes safely,鈥� said Const. Kelly Brett, Penticton RCMP. 鈥淲hether you鈥檙e boating, swimming, or paddling, it鈥檚 crucial to understand the risks and take proper precautions.鈥�
The public safety event will take place at Skaha Lake, one of the many popular bodies of water in the region.
Officers from the Community Safety Unit and volunteers will be conducting live safety demonstrations, launching the police boat for on-water safety checks, and engaging with the public about life jacket use, swimming awareness, and boating regulations.
The Penticton RCMP also offer the following water safety reminders:
鈥� Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water.
鈥� Never consume alcohol or drugs before swimming or boating.
鈥� Keep children within arm鈥檚 reach at all times.
鈥� Know your limits and avoid swimming alone or in unfamiliar areas.
鈥� Ensure your boat is equipped with proper safety gear and navigation lights.
For more information on drowning prevention, visit the or the websites online.
