Man drowns trying to help another in Central Okanagan
Posted July 17, 2022 3:59 pm.
Last Updated July 17, 2022 4:00 pm.
A man has drowned in Wood Lake in B.C.’s Central Okanagan. Police believe the victim was trying to help another person in distress.
The drowning happened Saturday evening at the lake north of Kelowna.
“According to witnesses, several other boaters located the two men in distress. One man was rescued with a life jacket but unfortunately the second male … died,” reads a statement from Kelowna RCMP.
Mounties are extending their condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
“We want to commend the people that assisted with the rescue efforts. Wearing and having easy access to life jackets made a significant difference in the outcome of this tragic event,” added Cpl. Judith Bertrand.
The BC Coroners Service has taken over the investigation.
Related article: Elderly man drowns in Okanagan Lake near Peachland
According to the service, 58.7 per cent of drowning deaths between 2008 and 2012 happened between May and August, and alcohol and/or drugs were factors in 40.2 per cent of those cases. People in their 20s were most likely to be victims of drowning.
You’re urged to stay out of the water if you cannot swim. Even if you can, you’re advised not to put your feet in fast-moving water that is deeper than the length of your arm.
“If a foot becomes entrapped by rocky bottom in deep water, the current will eventually push the swimmer over face first into the water,” the RCMP said in a list of safety tips.
You should also let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return, especially if you are going to a more remote location.
“Of the 397 deaths, just over 50 per cent (200) were involved in recreational activities such as swimming and boating, 44.1 per cent (175) involved falls into water, motor vehicle incidents where vehicles landed in water or deaths in bathtubs; and 5.5 per cent (220 were occupational).”
