EDMONTON -- A ceremony at the Alberta Legislature grounds Saturday recognized World Drowning Prevention Day and the importance of water safety. The Lifesaving Society’s Alberta and Northwest Territories branch hosted the ceremony and flag raising. Joe Zatylny, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services chief, said the city has seen a significant increase in drowning and water rescue incidents this year. “Today is a good reminder of water risk,” he said. “Drowning is something that is preventable. Everyone should have swimming lessons and know how to swim.” Kelly Carter, CEO of the Lifesaving Society branch, said one of the goals of the event was highlighting water safety and drawing further awareness to the record number of drownings occurring this year.