Ontario Drowning Spike This Summer: How to Stay Safe

July 07, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Ontario is facing a troubling rise in drowning incidents this summer. Recent data shows that more than 450 people drown in Canada each year, with nearly two-thirds of those deaths occurring between May and September—precisely when families are enjoying lakes, rivers, and backyard pools. The Lifesaving Society reports that nearly half of drowning deaths in recent years happened in lakes or ponds. In Ontario alone, about 48% of drownings occur at lakes or ponds, 19% in rivers, and approximately 12% in pools. Tragically, children under five account for a large percentage of pool-related drowning hospital visits, and most of these incidents happen due to absent or distracted supervision.

These sobering statistics highlight the shared responsibility we all have to stay vigilant near water. Whether swimming in one of Ontario’s many beautiful lakes, a supervised public pool, or a private backyard pool, water safety needs to be a priority for everyone.

1. Lakes, Rivers and Open Water Safety

Always Swim With a Buddy
A significant number of drowning victims were swimming alone. Especially in Ontario’s lakes, which can have sudden drop-offs, hidden currents, or cold temperatures that can trigger shock, swimming alone greatly increases risk.

Choose Supervised Areas
Whenever possible, swim in designated areas where lifeguards are on duty. Lifeguards are trained to spot trouble before it becomes an emergency and can intervene quickly if something goes wrong.

Wear a Life Jacket
Wearing an approved life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is one of the simplest ways to reduce drowning risk, yet many people choose not to wear one. This is especially important for boating, paddle boarding, or swimming in areas with unpredictable currents.

Check for Hazards
Before entering a lake or river, check for posted warnings about water quality, strong currents, or sudden weather changes. Be aware of submerged objects and changing depths. Local conservation authorities often issue water safety statements during high-risk times.

Stay Sober
Alcohol is a factor in many drownings. Impaired judgment and slower reaction times can be deadly around water. Avoid alcohol and drugs when swimming or supervising others.

2. Public Pool Safety

Keep Young Children Within Arm’s Reach
At public pools, supervision should be active and constant. The “water watcher” approach means one adult is always responsible for watching the water without distractions like phones or conversations.

Respect Lifeguards
Lifeguards are there for everyone’s safety. Obey pool rules, swim only when lifeguards are present, and ensure children know the basics of pool etiquette.

Learn to Swim and Encourage Lessons
Formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by as much as 88% for young children. Many municipalities in Ontario offer affordable swim programs for all ages and skill levels.

Avoid Rough Play and Diving in Shallow Water
Horseplay, pushing, or diving where it’s too shallow can lead to serious injuries, including head and spinal cord damage. Always check posted depth signs.

3. Backyard and Private Pool Safety

Install Proper Fencing
A four-sided isolation fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate significantly lowers the risk of child drownings in private pools. Many Ontario municipalities have bylaws requiring pool owners to install proper fencing.

Use Pool Covers and Alarms
Pool covers and water entry alarms add additional layers of protection by preventing unsupervised access when the pool is not in use.

Use Certified Life Jackets for Children
Inflatable floaties are toys, not life-saving devices. Make sure young or inexperienced swimmers use properly fitted, approved life jackets.

Assign a Responsible Adult
Never assume someone else is watching. Designate a specific adult to supervise children at all times. If that person needs to leave the pool area, someone else must take over.

4. General Water Safety Reminders

No matter where you swim, a few key practices apply everywhere. Never swim alone. Learn basic CPR and rescue techniques — it could save a life. Understand that drowning is often silent and quick, not the dramatic struggle many expect. Be prepared and alert for any signs of trouble.

We’re Here if You Need Us

Despite the best precautions, accidents can still happen. When they do, families may find themselves navigating unexpected medical costs, lost income, or even wrongful death claims. At Deutschmann de Koning Law, we understand how devastating drowning incidents can be for families and communities.

Our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to answer your questions, help you understand your legal options, and advocate for you if negligence or unsafe conditions contributed to a tragedy. By raising awareness and taking practical steps to keep family and friends safe near lakes, rivers, and pools, we can help prevent needless loss.

If you or someone you know needs advice following a water-related injury or drowning accident in Ontario, contact Deutschmann de Koning Law for clear guidance and trusted legal support.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.