WATER SAFETY EDUCATION FOR AKWESASRÓ:NON YOUTH
On August 31, 2026, Akwesasró:non youth came together for an important water safety education session with local water safety teams and canoe and kayak safety instructors. The session gave youth an opportunity to learn practical safety skills, ask questions, and hear personal experiences before heading to the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Services (AMPS) St. Regis Boat House for a hands-on water safety experience.
The sessions were presented through a partnership between AMPS, Iakwa’shatste Youth Fitness, Akwesasne Child & Family Services (ACFS), and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). Presenters shared practical information on canoe, kayak, and boating safety, along with personal stories that highlighted the importance of being prepared and making safe choices on the water.
Youth learned the importance of essential safety equipment and the importance of wearing a life jacket, never going on the water alone, telling someone where they are going, and letting someone know when they are expected to return.
Each youth received a life jacket, a beach towel with water safety guidelines, and a dry bag to keep their phone and personal belongings protected.
The youth were engaged throughout the whole session and asked thoughtful questions and “what if” scenarios creating a meaningful and open conversation around staying safe on the water.
Towards the end of the session, the SAVE Marine Unit provided several youth with a short boat ride around St. Regis Bay, giving them an opportunity to experience boating safety firsthand.
A special nia:wen to Community Service Officer Nathan Thompson, SAVE Cst. Trent McDonald, SAVE Cst. Kyle Latour-Lagace, and OPP Provincial Liaison Team Officer Pete Thorne, along with Annie Cree from Iakwa’shatste Youth Fitness, Cullen Jacobs from ACFS, and all who provided Akwesasró:non youth with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to stay safe on the water!
