Alberta RCMP are urging residents to take water safety seriously ahead of National Drowning Prevention Week, July 19-25, 2026. The annual campaign, led by the Lifesaving Society of Canada, coincides with World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25 and uses the theme “Safety starts with being Water Smart.” The Lifesaving Society says more than 400 Canadians die in preventable water-related incidents each year. Officers say people should avoid boating or swimming alone and ensure a spotter is present when towing someone during water sports. More Water Smart education is available at lifesaving.org/public-education, and RCMP safety updates can be found on Facebook, X, and YouTube.