Syrian families in Moncton learn water safety, Canadian pastimes

Dozens of Syrian families now living in the Moncton area got an introduction to enjoying Canadian watersports this weekend, getting tips on how to swim, boat and use personal floatation devices. 

Of the 72 Syrian families living in the region, 67 took part in the Canadian Red Cross event at Irishtown Nature Park Saturday. 

When he lived in Syria, Ezzet Mousa said the nearest body of water was several hundred kilometers away. That, combined with the war, made it impossible for his family to experience life around water, he said.

'So much fun'

After a day splashing around, Mousa was left beaming at how much his four children were able to experience a normal childhood.

"With the conflict, the children didn't play at all," he said. "So after six years, they are now playing in the water you know and they are having so much fun."

Hope to prevent mishaps

While Mousa was pleased to see his family getting new opportunities, he was aware of how dangerous water can be, and said he was grateful for the lessons.

Danika Crossman, a Red Cross boating safety program coordinator, said the event was aimed at preventing any potential mishaps with the newcomers.

"We don't have the research of Syrian families yet, and what kind of at risk demographic they might be for drowning" she said.

"That's why we're trying to have these kinds of events and to educate — before any kind of incidents happen."

First time in a canoe 

​Another boating safety officer, Kayla McGurik, said everyone seemed to take to the life jackets with ease.

"No one didn't want to put one on," she said. 

The general experience around water was a new sensation for most participants, but so was a very Canadian pastime — paddling. Several red canoes were supplied, much to the delight of adults and children alike.

Learning to paddle

Mohammad Mnayn, 15, said he had never been in a boat before, let alone a strange and wobbly one, but before long, he was a fan.

"It's very beautiful, I like this," Mnayn said.   

Not everyone was able to master a perfect J-stroke immediately, but as the canoes glided across the lake, the new paddlers filled the air with squeals of delight.

Chance to socialize 

Chandra Dempsey watched onshore. She volunteers to help Syrian families get used to the area, and said she was happy to see the growing community get a chance to socialize around the water. 

"We definitely take for granted the fact that the water is so close," Dempsey said.

Dempsey recalled an earlier day when she and her family took their adopted family to the beach.

"Seeing my kids running into the water so used to it, and our family's kids a little more hesitant. I think today is a chance for them to try something completely different."