Tragic Drowning in Ottawa River Highlights Need for CPR Awareness
A 22-year-old man from Markham, Ontario, tragically drowned while swimming in the Township of Whitewater Region on Friday evening. The incident was first reported by CBC News, and you can read the full original story here:
➡️ Swimmer drowns in Ottawa River– CBC NewsThe drowning occurred just before 6:30 p.m. in the Ottawa River at Foresters Falls, about 120 kilometres northwest of Ottawa.
According to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the man — a guest of OWL Rafting — had gone into the water for a swim when he suddenly disappeared beneath the surface. Witnesses noticed he wasn’t resurfacing and began searching the area. He was eventually found and pulled to shore, where bystanders immediately began CPR.
Paramedics transported him to hospital, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward. The victim has been identified as Charles “Chuck” Ozulumba. The coroner’s office, along with Renfrew OPP, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. Police confirmed that foul play is not suspected.
A First in 40 Years for OWL Rafting
Dirk Van Wijk, co-owner of OWL Rafting, said that in the company’s 40 years of operation, they have never experienced a drowning. Thousands of visitors raft the Ottawa River each summer, making this incident especially heartbreaking for the OWL Rafting community and the victim’s loved ones.
Ozulumba had only recently arrived at the site with friends when he entered the water. When he didn’t resurface, the search began immediately. His body was located within thirty minutes. Van Wijk said his family is deeply saddened by the tragedy and has reached out to Ozulumba’s family.
Why CPR Training Matters More Than Ever
Drowning is fast, silent, and often unexpected. In emergencies like this, immediate CPR can provide the only chance of survival while waiting for paramedics to arrive. Learning CPR empowers everyday people to step in and help during life-threatening situations.
If you want to be prepared to save a life, consider enrolling in a certified CPR program at Calgary First Aid:
➡️ https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
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