Research suggests new Canadian tweens at risk

Lifesaving Society releases new research on ethnicity and water safety and announces family swim program

TORONTO, June 27, 2016 /CNW/ - A study commissioned by the Lifesaving Society has found that although 93 per cent of new Canadian tweens (11-14 years) report they participate in water-related activities, they are five times more likely to be unable to swim than their classmates born in Canada.

On Tuesday, June 28, the Lifesaving Society will release initial findings from the study on water safety and ethnicity, and announce the launch of a new Family Swim to Survive program – a program that addresses some of the challenges new Canadians face and enables families to learn to swim together.

What:

• Brief poolside remarks followed by one-on-one interviews with Barbara Byers, Public Education Director for the Lifesaving Society
• B-roll/photo opportunity with Grade 7 students from Winchester Public School participating in the pool in a Swim to Survive+ class
• Interview opportunities with City of Toronto lifeguards

When: Tuesday, June 28, 2016

• Results from the study to be released via CNW at 7:00 a.m.
• Media Arrival: 9:30 a.m.
• Remarks from Barbara Byers: 9:45 a.m.
• Interviews and B-roll/photo opportunities: 9:50 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Where: Poolside at Regent Park Aquatic Centre, 640 Dundas St. East, Toronto.

• Street parking and underground lot across the street behind Paintbox Catering and Bistro.

Media vehicles: please use parking pad on west side of Aquatic Centre.

The research is timely as the summer heats up, and many families who are new to Canada make plans to celebrate a quintessential Canadian experience, the Canada Day weekend, and the start of summer holidays for students.

SOURCE Lifesaving Society

To arrange interviews or confirm your attendance; or for further information, please contact: Nichola Rochon, PraxisPR, [email protected], 416-460-3159 (cell); Riley McGilvray, PraxisPR, [email protected], 905-949-8255 x 251 or 289-686-9177 (cell)