Staying Safe Around Water in Peterborough and the Kawarthas
If you live in Peterborough or the Kawarthas, one thing is clear: water is everywhere. From scenic rivers and lakes to public pools and splash pads, water is a part of daily life here, especially during the warmer months. Whether you’re lounging at the beach, out for a paddle, or chasing your kids through a splash pad, knowing how to stay safe around water is essential for everyone.
Water is for Everyone and so is Water Safety
Whether you grew up swimming or have just started dipping your toes in, it’s important to remember: water can be unpredictable. Even confident swimmers need to take precautions, especially in natural settings where conditions can change quickly.
Popular Lakes, Beaches, and Swimming Pools in Peterborough and the Kawarthas
The region is full of places to enjoy the water, including:
- The Otonabee River runs through the city
- Buckhorn Lake and Little Lake, great for boating and paddling
- Beaches like the one at Beavermead Park
- Public pools and splash pads for families
- Trails and parks near lakes and creeks
These places are perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but they also require awareness—especially if you’re not used to being around or in water.
Why Water Safety Matters
Every year in Ontario, accidental drownings occur, many involving people who didn’t expect to be at risk. Sometimes, it’s due to a lack of swimming skills, other times, it’s unfamiliar terrain, hidden currents, or even a moment of distraction.
The good news? Most of these incidents are preventable. A few simple steps can make a big difference.
Five Ways to Stay Safe Around Water
1. Always Supervise Children
Children should always be within arm’s reach of an adult, even in shallow water. Never leave a child alone near a river, lake, or pool – not even for a minute.
2. Build Your Confidence Around Water
Swimming lessons aren’t just for kids. Learn basic swimming and floating skills. Adults and newcomers to Canada are encouraged to take lessons to build essential swimming and water safety skills. Everyone deserves to feel confident around water.
If you don’t swim, you can still enjoy the water but be sure to wear a lifejacket when near water.
3. Be Careful Around Natural Water
Don’t jump or dive into water if you don’t know how deep it is. Rocks, currents, and sudden drop-offs can be dangerous, even if the water looks calm. Rivers like the Otonabee can have strong undercurrents.
4. Wear a Lifejacket
Wear a lifejacket if you’re boating, paddling, or are not confident in the water. Children should always wear a lifejacket near open water.
5. Watch the Weather
Stay out of the water if there’s thunder, lightning, or strong winds. Sudden storms can make lakes and rivers unsafe in a matter of minutes.
Where to Learn and Find Resources
Swimming Lessons
- Swim to Survive – City of Peterborough
- YMCA Peterborough – swim lessons for all ages, including newcomer-friendly options
- Lifesaving Society – offers water safety resources in multiple languages
Where to Get a Lifejacket:
- Local stores like Canadian Tire, Walmart, or sports/outdoor shops
- Some community events and programs offer free or loaner lifejackets
Need Support in Another Language?
- The New Canadians Centre Peterborough offers help with translation, finding lessons, and understanding safety rules
- Ask community workers, teachers, or settlement staff if you need help registering for a program
Living in Peterborough means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water, whether it’s relaxing by the lake, taking your kids to a splash pad, or trying out a paddleboard for the first time.
You don’t have to be an expert, just take it one step at a time. Ask questions, take lessons, and never feel embarrassed about learning. Everyone starts somewhere!