Water safety programs to help protect Island youth

Canadian Red Cross water safety programs are an Island tradition and again this summer its day camps are helping children and youth improve their swimming, water safety, recreational boating skills, and environmental awareness.

“Red Cross day camps have been a rich Island tradition for generations,” said Health and Wellness Minister James Aylward. “Being a province surrounded by water, it is vitally important that Island children learn how to swim and understand basic water safety skills - these are important components to a fun, active and safe summer.”

The Department of Health and Wellness is contributing $125,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to help support water safety program day camps across the province.

“Thanks to a unique partnership and funding support from the provincial government, we can offer Island children and youth an accessible, low-cost program with multiple locations and dates that blend  fun, healthy activities and life-saving skills,” said Bill Lawlor, PEI provincial director of the Canadian Red Cross.

This year marks the 73rd anniversary of the day camps in Prince Edward Island. They began  in 1946 and  led to the creation of Red Cross swimming and water safety courses, which last year alone, benefitted more than 1.2 million Canadians of all ages.

Participants are taught swimming and boating safety skills and an appreciation of our beautiful natural environment – positive life skills to keep youth active and healthy. Children from Tignish to Souris can register and take a local school bus to the day camp available in, or closest-to, their community.

For more information or to register visit Red Cross PEI. 

Media Contact
Autumn Tremere
Health and Wellness
agtremere@gov.pe.ca
902-368-5610