Tragic Drowning at U of T Engineering Survey Camp Highlights Importance of CPR Training
A heartbreaking incident occurred during the University of Toronto’s annual engineering survey camp, where an 18-year-old student tragically drowned at Gull Lake in Minden, Ontario. The event was first reported by The Varsity and can be read in full here:
🔗 Original article: 18-year-old U of T student drowns at engineering survey camp
The camp, located on Deep Bay Road roughly 100 kilometres north of Peterborough, is a long-running training program for Civil and Mineral Engineering students and has operated since 1920.
Emergency responders were called to the site at approximately 4:45 p.m. after the student became separated from a group while in the water. According to Sergeant Peter Leon of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the group began searching immediately once they noticed he was missing. When they located him, they removed him from the water and started administering first aid and CPR.
Despite the prompt actions of fellow students, on-site staff, and emergency personnel, the young man—who was from the Mississauga area—was pronounced dead after being transported to a nearby healthcare facility. Police have stated that the incident is not considered suspicious, and a postmortem has been ordered as part of the ongoing investigation. Alcohol and substances were not believed to be contributing factors.
The University of Toronto Engineering Society and Civil Engineering Club released a statement confirming the student’s passing and urging students to seek support during this difficult time. Dean Cristina Amon of the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering also extended condolences, saying, “Today, our attention must be with those affected by this terrible tragedy. The thoughts of our entire community are with the family and friends of the student who died.”
Following the incident, the remainder of the camp’s programming was cancelled, and students were returned home.
Why CPR Training Matters
Although tragic outcomes cannot always be prevented, this incident reinforces the importance of knowing how to respond quickly and confidently in emergencies. Immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival in many cardiac and respiratory emergencies.
When bystanders act fast:
Blood flow to vital organs is maintained, buying critical time until advanced care arrives.
Survival outcomes improve significantly, especially in drowning-related emergencies.
Communities become safer, as more people are prepared to assist during unexpected events.
CPR is a skill that anyone can learn—and it can make all the difference when seconds matter.
Learn CPR and Be Prepared to Help
At Calgary First Aid, we believe everyone should feel empowered to Take action during emergencies. If you want to gain the skills needed to respond quickly and confidently, consider enrolling in one of our certified CPR and AED training courses.
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