It’s unfortunate that it takes a tragedy to remind us of the dangers of the water which dominates our community. However, at the same time, the absence, in recent memory, of previous tragedies in the heavily used area of the provincial park also indicates a healthy respect for safety.
One of the messages to come from the drowning of a 26-year-old Calgary man is that it only takes a short time or an unfortunate decision.
In a Calgary Herald article, Sylvan Lake RCMP Cpl. Kevin Halwa was quoted, “It’s a tragic, tragic incident.” He confirmed that the man was not wearing a life-jacket.
“Would a life-jacked have save him? Likely,” said Halwa. “But that doesn’t change the tragedy here.”
Halwa wasn’t able to say whether or not the victim was an experienced swimmer.
A warning from Canada Safety Council states nearly 500 Canadians die every year in water-related incidents. Drowning is the second leading cause of preventable death for children under 10 years of age, while children under the age of five are most at risk.
While their recommendations are geared towards children, the fact that drowning deaths consume so many talented and growing individuals each year is worthy of note.
Another topic, in relation to Sylvan Lake, is the use of proper flotation devices when boating, kayaking, canoeing and sailing on our jewel.
RCMP Cpl. James Allemekinders, in conversation earlier this week, noted that when checking boats he asks those on the watercraft who aren’t wearing life preservers if they know where they’re stored on the boat, in case the operator in injured or unable to tell his or her passengers during an incident.
The message here, of course, is that if you choose not to wear a life preserver you at least know quickly where to find one in an emergency — something that’s unplanned and for which there is little time to recover.
While we know what we write is common sense and should be adhered to, if we can influence one person to be more vigilant and prepared, we’ve done our duty in discussing the issue.
At the same time, we must applaud all of the people who selflessly assisted in trying to rescue the man who eventually died. Our firefighters are volunteers who respond to 911 calls from their homes or wherever they are, to help during emergencies. Police, while first responders, aren’t specially trained in diving and exploring the murky depths of our lake. Associated Ambulance EMS people were there to provide their expertise.
Most significant, of course, are the people who are not first responders, but who were enjoying a leisurely Saturday evening and joined in the rescue attempts, using their swimming strengths or their watercraft to assist.
To everyone involved, our sincere appreciation for taking action. We truly have a strong community of people who care about others.
Whether they are tourists visiting for a short time, or long time residents, we know our society is well served.