Skip to main content

National Drowning Prevention Week

Back to Search

The Town of Tillsonburg is inviting residents to take part in National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW), taking place July 19 - 25, 2026, with fun and educational activities at the Lake Lisgar Waterpark 

As part of the week, residents are encouraged to participate in a NDPW Activity Passport. Participants can pick up their passports and take part in daily water safety-focused activities designed to build awareness and lifesaving skills at Lake Lisgar Waterpark. Once all activities are completed, passports can be submitted to the front desk for a chance to win a prize.  

Key Times: 

  • Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 a.m.—Passport pickup begins. 

  • Monday, July 20 to Friday, July 24—Activities are expected to run daily from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., depending on attendance and demand, at Lake Lisgar Waterpark.

NDPW is an annual campaign led by the Lifesaving Society to raise awareness about water safety and help prevent drowning incidents across Canada, particularly at a time when many Canadians are enjoying lakes, pools, and other recreational water activities. This year’s theme, “Prepare!”, encourages everyone to take simple but important steps to stay safe in, on, and around water.  

Why It Matters 

According to the Lifesaving Society’s 2026 Ontario Drowning Data Snapshot, more than 200 Canadians drown each year, while thousands more experience non-fatal drowning incidents that can lead to serious, lifelong injuries. Drowning is also one of the leading causes of accidental death among children. The 2026 Snapshot shows that 98% of drownings involving children under the age of five are linked to absent or distracted supervision, and that a child can drown in as little as one inch of water. The Lifesaving Society’s data also shows that most incidents occur during the summer months, often in open water settings such as lakes and rivers, and nearly 75% of victims are male.  

Key Water Safety Messages 

The Town of Tillsonburg is sharing the following reminders during NDPW: 

  • Drowning is fast and silent. Always supervise children closely and stay within arm’s reach. 

  • Swimming lessons save lives—but do not replace supervision. Everyone should learn basic swimming and water safety skills. 

  • Wear a lifejacket. A properly fitted lifejacket significantly reduces the risk of drowning. 

  • Be prepared for emergencies. Knowing CPR and basic rescue skills can save lives. 

  • Most drownings are preventable. Safer choices help protect you and your loved ones.  

For more information about NDPW Tillsonburg, visit www.tillsonburg.ca or contact Brooke Colton, Aquatics Coordinator.