Prepare to be Water Smart
Every summer, Canadians head to lakes, pools, rivers, and beaches to cool off, relax, and make memories. But too often, these moments are overshadowed by tragedy.
That’s why the Lifesaving Society designates the third week of July as National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW)—a national campaign to raise awareness, promote water safety, and help prevent drowning incidents across Canada.
This year’s theme, Prepare to be Water Smart, focuses on planning ahead, building aquatic skills, and making smart choices around water.
The YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg, is proud to carry forward the legacy of YMCA Canada, which developed and launched Canada's very first standardized national aquatic program in 1931. With over 95 years of experience and a commitment to water safety for all, we’re helping families build confidence, learn life-saving skills, and enjoy the water—safely.
Explore this page to find:
- Free water safety tips and tools
- Inspiring real-life stories from Y community members
- Swim lesson info and certification programs
- Ways to get involved all week long at your local Y
The Facts
Over 450 Canadians die in preventable water-related incidents each year. | In Manitoba, there are 22 water-related fatalities annually. | Nearly 70% of drowning victims never intended to enter the water. | Drowning can happen in under 30 seconds, often without a splash or sound. |
Empowering Our Community with Water Safety Skills and Confidence
During the week of July 19 to 25, 2026, Y Winnipeg is stepping up educational content in community hubs and at Camp Stephens, paying special attention to open water safety in addition to the Y's usual swimming lesson and lifesaving curricula. .
What is Water Competency?
Water competency is more than just knowing how to swim. It includes:
- Water Smarts – understanding risks and staying alert
- Swimming Skills – being able to swim, float, and get to safety
- Helping Others – knowing how to respond in an emergency
Join Us for National Drowning Prevention Week
From July 19–25, visit your local Y Community Hub for free water safety resources, posters, expert tips, and interactive displays. Follow us on social media all week for daily water safety reminders and real stories from our community.
Water Smart Tips to Remember
- Keep children within arm’s reach at all times
- Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when boating
- Never swim alone – always swim with a buddy
- Supervise closely – even in shallow water
- Avoid alcohol when in, on, or around water
- Learn how to swim and how to respond to emergencies
Real Stories. Real Impact.
This National Drowning Prevention Week, we’re spotlighting local voices whose lives have been shaped by water safety, swim instruction, and the support of the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg.
Swipe through or click below to read their Y Stories:
Alicia's Y Story
Alicia didn’t expect her career in Canada to start in a pool. In Ecuador, she had worked in banking, but when she moved here, a lifeguard job at Y Winnipeg was her first big opportunity. “It was more than just a job,” Alicia says. “It helped me feel confident in a new country and gave me a place to belong.”
Manuel's Y Story
“The YMCA helped my daughter keep swimming — and helped our family feel at home in a new country,” shared Manuel who recently came from Nicaragua. The move came with many challenges, but when he reached out to Y Winnipeg’s Recreation Opportunities for Children program, things began to change.
James's Y Story
When James enrolled his children in swim lessons, he hoped they’d stay active. What they gained was confidence, safety, and a new love for the water. “I explained that knowing how to swim is important and that he would be glad he learned it later on.”
Fidel's Story
Reflecting on his journey from being a newcomer who couldn't swim to being an advocate for water safety, Fidel said "These experiences motivate me to show other newcomers that swimming can be fun and safe if we know how to respect the water."
Learn to Swim at Y Winnipeg
The YMCA developed Canada’s first national aquatic program. Today, we continue that legacy with swim lessons and aquatics programs for every age and ability. It’s never too early—or too late—to learn.
Become a Lifeguard or Swim Instructor
Want to make a difference? Become a certified lifeguard or instructor. You’ll gain valuable skills, give back to your community, and open the door to a meaningful job in aquatics.