REC Connect

Check out these water safety tips and resources before embarking on a splashing good summer!

Backyard Pool Safety

We want you to have a splashing good summer in your backyard pool.

Before you jump in, check out these tips to prevent water injuries this summer.

Learn to Swim

Learning to swim is an important life skill that can play a key role in helping to prevent drowning. Plus it is fun.

Swimming lessons are offered at Ravensong Aquatic Centre. Register online or call 250-752-5014

Unable to attend swim lessons, here are some tips to practice your swimming on your own.

• Check your last report card and see what swimming skills you can work on. Try some new ones and show them off to your parents, grandparents and friends.
• PLAY! Playing in the water is the best way to build endurance and develop water skills. Practice at the beach, the lake, backyard pools and even in your bathtub. Blow bubbles, dunk your head, splash, float and kick.
• You can practice your swim skills on land too. Try the at home dryland swim lesson
• Attend an Everyone Welcome Swim at Ravensong Aquatic Centre. View swim schedule online or call 250-752-5014.

Are you looking to hire a Lifeguard or Swimming Instructor?

There are a few important things to consider before hiring a lifeguard or swimming instructor for your backyard pool or local swimming spot.

Is the person certified and authorized to provide swim lessons or guarding? The Lifesaving Society provides certification for lifeguards and swimming instructors. RDN recommends only hiring certified instructors to ensure they are providing you with a safe and quality service.

Are they prepared for an emergency? Certified instructors should be trained to handle emergency situations like injuries or drowning. Make sure they are prepared and that there is equipment available to handle emergencies (first aid kit, phone, rescue devices, backup person).

What about insurance? Ensure you and your instructor have the necessary liability insurance coverage. Your house insurance policy may not cover this. Lifeguards and swim instructors should also have their own insurance to cover liability for themselves or their business.

For more info check out Lifesaving Society BC

Lifejackets

As the weather gets warmer and we head outdoors to kayak, SUP or boat, please make sure you have your lifejackets. Did you know it's the law? Transport Canada requires a lifejacket and a sound signalling device (ie a whistle) when on the water. Plus if you are heading out after sunset or before sunrise you are also required to have a watertight flashlight. Find out more.

Take the water safety quiz

Kids activity sheets

Congratulations on taking the first step to a healthier you. The Fitness Walking Handbook will help you make walking a part of your everyday life. Download it today

If you would like to track your progress, consider downloading the Participaction App. It's free and also a great resource to help you meet your fitness goals.