84 Classes Learn How to Stay Safe Around Waterways (media release, March 13, 2024)
Nearly 80,000 students have participated in the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s (UTRCA’s) River Safety program since its inception in 1998. This year, 84 classes participated in the program – the highest involvement since returning to in-person programming following the pandemic.
The River Safety program teaches Grade 1, 2, and 3 students how to stay safe around waterways like creeks, the Thames River, and floodwater. “With the warm weather we have experienced this winter, it was extremely important to emphasize that the water is still very cold and poses a danger,” says Vanni Azzano, Community Education Supervisor at Wildwood Conservation Area.
The interactive nature of the program is a draw for the young students. It begins with a story about Splish and Splash, two water droplets learning about the dangers associated with water and how to stay safe. The students then engage in a collaborative puzzle activity, fitting their water and safety-related pieces into a large board. Videos, songs, and a quiz round out the one-hour program.
“The students learn to keep their distance from rivers and streams that can be cold, moving quickly, and have unstable and slippery banks. While the activities are designed to be fun and engaging, the content is quite serious and can be lifesaving,” says Karlee Flear, Community Education Coordinator.
The UTRCA is very grateful for the donations and sponsorships that enabled this program to be offered across four school boards – Thames Valley District School Board, London District Catholic School Board, Avon Maitland District School Board, Huron Perth Catholic District School Board.
Fanshawe Education sponsors: Enbridge Gas, Tecumseh Community School, Optimist Clubs of Byron, Optimist Club of Arva, Optimist Club of Thorndale, and Thamesford Lions.
Wildwood Education sponsors: Hickson Lions Club, Optimist Clubs of Downie, Ellice, Kirkton-Woodham, Mitchell, Shakespeare, Tavistock, Rotary Club of St. Marys, and Rotary Club of Stratford.
Find photos of the program at Byron Somerset Public School.
Contact: Amy Bumbacco, Communications and Marketing Specialist