Two more people drowned over the weekend - one in the Okanagan and another on Vancouver Island, after the July 18 drowning of a 21-year-old Port Coquitlam man in Alouette Lake.
So far this year, 43 people have drowned in B.C., almost twice as many as at the same time last year.
The Lifesaving Society of B.C. and the Yukon keeps track, and said drowning numbers are rising over the long term.
No one should have to avoid going to B.C.'s lakes and waterways. In addition to offering stunning scenery and recreation opportunities, they can be vital during hot spells at providing places for people to cool off, but B.C. lakes, rivers, creeks, and watercourses are also places where people can get into trouble.
Swimming in a lake is different from swimming in a pool.
Bodies of water have their own currents, and lake and river water levels change throughout the year. The temperature of natural water bodies is usually colder, as well.
People can't assume that, because a lake site or other waterfront spot is public, there will be help at hand.
Cutbacks have meant there are few lifeguards at public lakes and swimming spots around B.C. And it takes time for emergency crews to get to these spots.
As has been shown, a person can drown or get into serious trouble even when surrounded by hundreds of people.
Often, by the time a person realizes he or she is in trouble, there is neither energy nor voice to summon help.
Always use safety gear in or near water, keep the booze at home, and before any risky behaviours or extreme adventures, always assume you are not as good a swimmer/diver/boater as you imagine.
