Learn About Water and Boating Safety at the CVRD's Aquatic Centre

May brings warmer weather, and also the Canadian Red Cross’ National Lifejacket Day, and to mark the occasion, the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is inviting the public to learn about water and boating safety on Saturday, May 30 between 2:00 – 4:00 pm during the “everyone welcome” swim at the CVRD’s aquatic centre which runs from 1:00 – 4:30 p.m.    

Some of the tips attendees will learn about include the proper size and fit of a lifejacket, water entries and exits, how to safely load and enter a boat, and rescue simulations. 

“National Lifejacket Day is an annual campaign initiated by the Canadian Red Cross to ensure boater safety by encouraging the use of lifejackets and PFDs,” said Jennifer Zbinden, the CVRD’s recreation services manager. “We wanted to offer a fun session on water safety skills because we want residents of our community to feel comfortable around water and be able to enjoy some safe, summer fun.” 

For more information on the CVRD’s sports and aquatic centres, including swim lesson rates and schedules, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec. Tip sheets on water safety can also be found online at www.redcross.ca/swim .

The Comox Valley Regional District is a federation of three electoral areas and three municipalities providing sustainable services for residents and visitors to the area. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.

The event, which is in partnership with Pacific Pro Dive, will raise awareness of the importance of lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs) and will include fun activities for the entire family, including water survival games and rescue challenges, and boating safety drills and demonstrations. This water safety session will take place in a section of the 25-metre pool, and is included in the regular swim admission rates. Participants can also win prizes. The wave pool and remaining areas of the 25-metre pool will be open for patrons enjoying the “everyone welcome” swim.