Brothers on a Mission: Quebec Family Champions Water Safety, Offers Free Rescuer Training Amidst Drowning Concerns
MONTREAL – As warmer weather beckons Americans to pools and beaches, a family in Quebec is making waves in water safety. The Marchand brothers – Louis, Charles, Laurent, and David – are not just siblings; they are passionate advocates for drowning prevention. Their dedication has spurred the creation of Nataction Living, a company focused on training rescuers and equipping communities with the knowledge to prevent water-related tragedies.
“It is the return of good weather, and with it, the irresistible desire to dive into the swimming pool or to lounge in the sun,” the brothers said in a recent interview. “but before taking out the jerseys, let’s talk about aquatic safety – and not with anyone.”
Louis, 22, and Charles, 20, co-founded Nataction Living, driven by what they saw as a critical need for better rescuer training and public awareness. Their work quickly gained recognition. in a single summer, they trained hundreds of new rescuers, issued over 330 certifications, and earned a nomination from a rescue organization as “Affiliate member of the year.” the HEC Montreal Foundation also awarded them an Entrepreneurship scholarship. Laurent, 18, a swimming instructor and lifeguard, and David, 16, also a lifeguard, represent the next generation of this committed family.
Nataction Living’s mission extends beyond traditional training.The company offers free rescuer training through its “Laumpotage nataction” programme, attracting a diverse group of participants, including adults and retirees.“More and more adults and even young retirees register: aquatic security affects everyone,” the brothers noted.
Addressing a Critical Need
The Marchand brothers’ efforts come at a crucial time.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death in the united States, with an average of eleven drowning deaths per day. Children are especially vulnerable, with drowning being the number one cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1-4. Racial and ethnic disparities also exist, with significantly higher drowning rates among african American/Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations.
While the original article cites a decrease in drowning rates in Quebec as the 1990s due to prevention efforts, recent data in the U.S. paints a more complex picture. While overall drowning rates have fluctuated, specific age groups and demographics continue to face disproportionate risks.
What Makes a Good Rescuer?
The Marchands emphasize that a good rescuer is more than just a strong swimmer.“A good rescuer is a person alert, responsible, calm under pressure… and passionate,” they explain. “He is also someone who knows the basic rules for a safe summer.” these rules include:
Wearing a boat life jacket.
Participating in prevention programs.
Never swimming alone.
Avoiding alcohol and drugs near water.
The Reality of Drowning
Drowning isn’t always the dramatic, splashing event often portrayed in movies. It can be silent and swift. The CDC emphasizes the importance of constant supervision, especially for young children, as many drownings occur when children are unsupervised or during brief lapses in supervision.
However, some critics argue that focusing solely on individual behavior places an unfair burden on parents and caregivers, especially those in underserved communities where access to swimming lessons and safe swimming environments may be limited. They advocate for broader systemic changes, such as increased funding for public swimming pools, mandatory swimming education in schools, and stricter regulations for pool safety. Nataction Living’s free training program is designed to combat just that.
statistics to Consider
The original article highlights sobering statistics:
“525” water-related avoidable deaths every year in Canada.
“57” children on average victims of drowning.
While these figures are specific to Canada, the U.S. faces its own challenges. The CDC reports that about one in five people who die from drowning are children 14 years old or younger. for every child who dies from drowning, another eight receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries.Preventing drowning requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing individual responsibility, community resources, and public policy. The Marchand brothers and nataction Living are contributing to this effort by empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to become lifesavers.
FAQ: Water Safety and Drowning Prevention
What are the moast crucial things to keep in mind when supervising children near water? Constant, uninterrupted supervision is key. Designate a water watcher and avoid distractions.
At what age should children learn to swim? The american Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children can start swim lessons as early as age 1, depending on their individual readiness.
What are the signs of drowning? Drowning can be silent.Look for signs such as head low in the water, mouth at water level, gasping, hyperventilating, or struggling to swim. What should I do if I see someone drowning? Call for help immediately. If possible, reach for the person with a long object (like a pole or towel) or throw a flotation device. Avoid entering the water yourself unless you are a trained rescuer.
* Where can I find swimming lessons? Many local recreation centers, YMCA branches, and private swim schools offer swimming lessons for all ages and skill levels. Check with your local parks and recreation department for data on affordable programs.
