The City of Langford is now installing lifesaving equipment at all lakes within the municipality following community calls for better access.
Although not mentioned in its announcement Friday specifically, the installation of the life rings come after the tragic death of a teenage boy who swam in Langford Lake and later died due to his injuries on June 20.
Shortly after Keron McKay’s death, members of the community called upon the City of Langford to install life saving equipment around Langford Lake.
“Council fully supports all initiatives that promote water safety and lifesaving efforts,” said Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson in a statement.
“We are committed to creating awareness and providing a safer environment for residents and visitors to enjoy local lakes,” he said.
On July 2, CHEK News reported that local father and business owner Ryan Oakley took it upon himself to purchase life rings for the docks at Langford Lake.
After McKay’s death, Oakley and his girlfriend drove to Langford Lake to see if there was any lifejackets or life rings. After not seeing any, he purchased five dock-edge life rings, hoops and equipment to install on the lake’s docks, in an effort to make them easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Oakley said before the equipment could be brought in, the city needed to approve it. Now, the municipality has.
“The city would like to thank Langford residents Ryan Oakley and Brittany Loomis for their generous donation of four life rings,” said the city in its release.
“The city is in the process of installing the donated life rings at the main swimming areas of Langford Lake and has also purchased Public Access Liferings directly from the Lifesaving Society of BC.”
A life ring has already been installed at the Leigh Place dock, and over the next week, life rings will also be installed at Scouts Point, Lake Park off Goldstream Avenue, Lake Point Park, Florence Lake boat launch dock, Lake Beach Park and Glen Cove dock.
With files from CHEK’s Mackenzie Read
Tchadas Leo
