Message from the Office of the Chief Coroner - Upcoming review of all
drowning deaths in Ontario

TORONTO, July 29 /CNW/ - Dr. Bert Lauwers, Acting Chief Coroner for Ontario, today announced that the Office of the Chief Coroner will undertake a review of all drowning deaths in Ontario for the months of May, June, July and August 2010. The purpose of this review is to identify common factors that may have played a role in the deaths and if necessary, make recommendations to prevent similar deaths. Once complete, the results of this review will be released to the public later in the year.

In the meantime, Dr. Lauwers is reminding all Ontarians of the following safety tips that can and do save lives:

    
    -  Learn to swim - Swimming is a basic life skill that everyone should be
       taught regardless of age.
                                     AND

    -  Wear a lifejacket or a personal flotation device (PFD) even if you are
       a strong swimmer as fatigue can set in very quickly.
    -  Adults should closely supervise children at all times when enjoying
       water activities. Children can drown quickly and quietly so adults are
       reminded to stay close constantly.
    -  Don't drink and drive when boating.
    

Dr. Lauwers recommends that all Ontarians who wish to learn more about staying safe in and around water should contact the Lifesaving Society, the Red Cross or other similar organizations in their area for information and assistance.

Disponible en français

    
                               ontario.ca/mcscs
    

For further information: Dr. Bert Lauwers, Acting Chief Coroner for Ontario, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, 416-314-4000