Quebec enters peak drowning period as construction holidays begin

Quebec is entering its highestrisk period for drowning deaths as the province’s construction holidays begin, according to the Quebec Lifesaving Society. The group says there have already been 39 suspected drownings this year and expects that number to increase over the next two weeks. The society’s executive director, Raynald Hawkins, said data from previous years suggests at least nine additional drowning deaths could occur during this stretch. He noted that the holiday period brings more people to the water, along with warm weather, which can increase risk. Authorities also pointed to recent incidents, including a case in the Gaspé region where one man was found dead and another remained missing after the two were reportedly fishing in the St. Lawrence River. The Sûreté du Québec said it will increase its presence across the province during the holidays. The Lifesaving Society says most drowning deaths in Quebec happen in open water rather than pools, and that adults, especially young men, are among the most affected groups. It is advising people to wear life jackets on boats, avoid swimming alone, and keep children within arm’s reach near water.