For Immediate Release
Sept. 9, 2025
UTRCA Seeks Community Support for Children’s River Safety Program
To help more children build lifelong water safety skills, the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is seeking to expand its River Safety Program for Grade 2 students. This program teaches young children how to stay safe around local rivers, creeks, and reservoirs. The UTRCA is turning to community members to help reach more classes.
Many local service clubs have generously funded the River Safety Program since it was launched by the UTRCA in 1998, allowing hundreds of students to benefit each year. Now, the UTRCA hopes to bring water safety education to more schools across the watershed – but doing so depends on additional donations from community members and groups.
“We know that prevention starts with education,” said Karlee Flear, Community Education Coordinator, UTRCA. “The River Safety Program gives children tools to recognize risks and make safe choices near water. Expanding the program means protecting more young lives, but we need the support of the community.”
Through fun, hands-on activities, students learn about our local rivers, creeks, and reservoirs while building an understanding of how to enjoy them safely. The program helps children recognize that natural waterways can be very different from pools — with cold, moving water, hidden currents, and slippery edges — and gives them the knowledge and confidence to make safe choices. It is designed specifically for Grade 2 students, who are at a critical age for learning lifelong water safety habits.
“This is about giving kids the confidence to enjoy our rivers and lakes safely,” said Flear. “Every donation directly supports education that can prevent tragedies.”
The UTRCA is inviting community members, service groups, and businesses to contribute to this vital program. $150 covers the cost for an entire class, but donations of any size will add up to bring the River Safety Program to more schools, ensuring children learn how to stay safe near water.
To support the River Safety Program or learn more, visit thamesriverdonations.ca/river-safety-program.
Contact:
Karlee Flear
Community Education Coordinator
Upper Thames River Conservation Authority
[email protected]
519-451-2800 ext. 254