Tips to stay safe around the water this summer

OTTAWA — As summer arrives in Ottawa, the Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition is encouraging everyone to practice water safety at all times at beaches, lakes and swimming pools.

Approximately 500 Canadians die by drowning every year. Last Tuesday, a two-year-old boy drowned in the Ottawa River at Petrie Island.

"Drowning is fast and silent and can occur in as little as a few centimetres of water," said the Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition.

"It is important to remember that drowning deaths are preventable if we all do our part and use layers of protection."

Parents are advised to watch children at all times around pools and bodies of water.

The Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition provides water safety tips for safe swimming this summer.

Splash pads are now open in the City of Ottawa, while lifeguards will be on duty at Ottawa's three beaches starting June 27.

Outdoor pools, wading pools and beaches are now open in Gatineau.

Transport Canada says the following equipment is required on motorized craft no greater than six metres in length