National Drowning Prevention Week 2026

Next week, July 19-25, is National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW).

This year’s theme – Prepare to be Water Smart – underscores the importance of heeding water-safety advice, especially if you or those you love ever venture out onto our amazing but dangerous nearby waterways – or even just swim in a pool.

NDPW aims to teach Ontarians the simple steps they can take to prevent drowning, and water-related injury, by preparing themselves to be in, on, and around the water.

The main messages you should take away from NDPW are as follows:

• Drowning is preventable
• Preparation saves lives
• Small steps can make a big difference:

o   stay within arms’ reach

o   wear a lifejacket

o   learn to swim

o   swim where the lifeguards are

o   actively supervise children AT ALL TIMES

As part of NDPW 2026, the Windsor and Essex County Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Coalition will be attending two safety events next week – one in support of the Town of Essex event this coming Sunday, July 19 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Colchester Harbour, and the other at Point Pelee National Park at the tip on Saturday, July 25 from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Stop by if you’re in the area on those days and learn much more about water safety and drowning prevention.

Watch our numerous water safety videos, here.