Syrian families in Moncton learn water safety, Canadian pastimes

Dozens of Syrian families now living in the Monctonareagot an introduction to enjoying Canadian watersports this weekend, getting tips on how to swim, boat andusepersonal floatation devices.

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

When he lived in Syria,EzzetMousasaid the nearest body of water was several hundredkilometersaway. That,combined with the war, made it impossible for his family to experience life aroundwater, he said.

'So much fun'

After a day splashing around, Mousawas 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 preventmishaps

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

Danika Crossman, aRed Crossboating 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 demographicthey 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

Anotherboating 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, hewas a fan.

"It's very beautiful, I like this," Mnaynsaid.

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 withsqueals of delight.

Chance to socialize

Chandra Dempseywatched onshore. Shevolunteersto help Syrian families get used to the area,andsaid 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," Dempseysaid.

Dempsey recalled an earlierday 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."