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Swimming in waves can quickly become dangerous when a rip current pulls a person away from shore and makes it difficult to swim back. Rip currents, also known as rips, can form in areas where waves break across a wide stretch of shoreline. They are often associated with variations in water depth, such as sandbars, and can also form near structures such as docks and jetties. Found along ocean coastlines and in the Great Lakes, among other locations, rip currents form when water pushed toward …

Research and coroners’ investigation reports show that drowning deaths in waterfront environments may be associated with a lack of awareness of the risks specific to rivers and natural bodies of water, overestimating one’s abilities, risk-taking or unsafe behaviours. Raising public awareness of the potential hazards associated with recreational activities near, on and in the water is therefore an important part of drowning prevention. Best Practices Guide for Waterfront Site Owners (FR only) …

Safety Tips Boating and aquatic activities are an important part of summer recreation in Quebec. With its vast network of lakes, rivers and other bodies of water, the province offers many opportunities for swimming, paddling, fishing and recreational boating. To fully enjoy these activities in a safe environment, adopting responsible behaviours is essential, whether near the water, on the water or in the water. Here are a few recommendations to help make the summer season both enjoyable and …

The gradual drop in temperature can pose risks during activities near or on the water. At this time of year, the water can be particularly cold, increasing the risks associated with an unexpected fall into the water. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the body’s core temperature to drop. This decrease can gradually affect the functioning of vital organs and body systems. Without appropriate intervention, hypothermia can have serious consequences …

  Plan Your Outing to Stay Safe! Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is not without risk, as several incidents in Quebec in recent years have shown. In July 2021, several people found themselves in distress on Lac Saint-Jean, including a 13-year-old who had to be rescued after being carried away from shore. A few days later, a 23-year-old man died during a stand-up paddleboarding outing in Saint-Siméon, Charlevoix. What Are the Risks? With the growing popularity of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) since …

Activities in natural environments offer exceptional opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. However, staying alert is essential: more than half of drownings in Quebec occur in lakes and rivers. Proper preparation and safe behaviours can help reduce risks and allow everyone to fully enjoy outdoor activities in natural environments. Here are some essential safety tips. Plan Your Outing Good preparation helps reduce risks and makes it easier to respond effectively if something unexpected happens. …

Wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of drowning during boating activities. However, to provide optimal protection, a PFD must fit properly. A PFD that is too large, too small or improperly fastened may lose much of its effectiveness when it is needed most. Proper Fit Choosing the Right Size The manufacturer’s guidelines should be used as the reference when choosing the appropriate PFD size. Sizing is generally based on weight, chest …

Quebec’s natural environments offer exceptional landscapes and countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, cycling, or skiing, or simply to enjoy nature in peace and quiet. Whatever the activity, proper preparation and safe practices are essential to making the most of the outdoors. Our Tips How to Properly Fit a Lifejacket Wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of drowning during boating …

  As children get older, some develop the skills, judgment, and independence needed to enjoy a pool without direct adult supervision. But how can parents determine whether a child is ready? There is no minimum age established by regulation for determining when a young person can swim without parental supervision. Instead, the decision should take several factors into account: maturity, swimming abilities, ability to follow rules, and how the child responds to unexpected situations. However, …

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Welcome to Quebec In our beautiful province, bodies of water are abundant and an integral part of our identity. From the St. Lawrence River and vast lakes to countless rivers and streams, water shapes our landscape, contributes to our economy and plays a central role in our recreational activities. However, this close relationship with water also comes with risks and responsibilities. We would therefore like to share a few tips to help you safely enjoy and navigate your new aquatic environment. …

68 drownings As of November 9, we have recorded 68 presumed unofficial drownings, compared with 59 in 2025. See Where These Drownings Occurred Prevent. Act. In 2025, we recorded 62 presumed unofficial drownings , compared with 60 in 2024 and 85 in 2023 . In 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Lifesaving Society recorded 92, 91, 117 and 74 official drownings, respectively, as reported by the coroner’s office. Data from 2023 to the present remain unofficial, as they have not yet been validated by the …