British Columbia: On World Drowning Prevention Day, July 25, 2024, Adrian Dix, B.C.’s Minister of Health, emphasized the importance of safety around water. He highlighted that there were 101 accidental drowning deaths last year in B.C., with alcohol and drugs contributing to 39% of these deaths. Most victims were males (79%) and people aged 19 to 29 (20%).
To prevent drownings, Dix advised avoiding alcohol and drugs near water, wearing life jackets, swimming with a friend, learning CPR and first aid, and supervising young children. He stressed that proper preparation can turn a fun day into a safe one and urged people to enjoy water activities responsibly.