Search

Caught in a Rip Current
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 …
Shoreline Safety
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) …
Near the Water, Think Safety
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 …
Near the Water, Think Safety
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 …
Shoreline Safety
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) …
Fall Safety
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 …
Fall Safety
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 …
Paddle Board
  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 …
Paddle Board
  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 …
Safe Behaviours
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. …
How to Fit a Lifejacket
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 …
Safe Behaviours
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. …