Living in Prince Edward County, I have a deep connection to our beautiful local beaches, Sandbanks, North Beach, East lake, Point Petre, West lake and Wellington beach. These natural treasures are a source of joy and recreation for residents and visitors alike. However, with the joy comes a concerning trend — a rise in drowning incidents since the season began.

Despite their allure, these beaches can be deceptively dangerous. The absence of lifeguards has proven costly, with too many lives lost or endangered. It's heart-wrenching knowing that these tragedies could potentially be averted with the presence of trained lifeguards. As someone who cherishes these community spaces, I'm driven by the urgency to safeguard them.

Statistics show that lifeguard presence can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 93%. Imagine the peace of mind for families, knowing there's a professional on duty ready to respond at a moment's notice. This isn’t just a precaution but an investment in public safety.

By implementing lifeguards, we can enhance safety without impacting the natural beauty and enjoyment of these beaches. Lifeguards have been vital in reducing accidents in countless other locations, and it’s time they are recognized as a necessity here.

Let us come together as a community to urge local authorities to take action. We demand the implementation of lifeguard services on our beaches during peak season. The lives of our loved ones and visitors are too precious to risk.

Join me in this crucial step towards a safer environment at all the Prince of Edward county beaches by signing this petition. Together, we can make a difference.