Indian Consulate Issues Water Safety Alert After Reported Rise In Drowning Cases In Canada – Obnews

Indian nationals living in Canada are being urged to exercise extreme caution near beaches, lakes, rivers and other bodies of water following a reported increase in drowning cases involving members of the community.

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According to CTV News, the Consulate General of India in Toronto issued a public safety advisory on Wednesday warning Indian nationals to take additional precautions while visiting areas near water. The advisory is particularly relevant for Indian international students who may be unfamiliar with local conditions at Canadian lakes, rivers and beaches.

The consulate stated that it has been receiving an increased number of reports involving drowning cases among Indian nationals in Canada. Officials advised people to carefully follow posted safety instructions, avoid entering unfamiliar or unsafe waters and wear life jackets whenever they are required or recommended.

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The advisory comes as warmer weather brings more residents and visitors to beaches, lakes and recreational areas across the country. Water conditions can change quickly, especially in rivers and lakes where strong currents, cold temperatures and uneven depths may not always be visible from the shore.

CTV News reported that the Consulate General of India did not provide detailed statistics or clarify how many of the reported drowning incidents were fatal. The consulate had also not immediately responded to a request from CTV News for additional information as of Thursday.

Figures cited by CTV News from the Royal Life Saving Society in the United Kingdom show that India recorded the highest estimated number of drowning deaths among Commonwealth countries in 2021, with 54,682 deaths. Canada ranked 19th among Commonwealth nations, with an estimated 298 drowning deaths during the same year.

The Royal Life Saving Society has noted that fatal drownings disproportionately affect children and young people around the world. The latest advisory serves as an important reminder for students, families and visitors to prioritize water safety throughout the summer season.

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