BARRIE, ONT. -- The Lifesaving Society believes pandemic restrictions may be a factor in an upward trend in drownings. Public Education Director Barbara Byers says the society has tracked 42 drownings in the province so far in 2021, with preliminary information on two more. The number of drownings is close to where it was this point in 2020, but up over their pre-pandemic levels. "There are fewer places to go swimming where lifeguards are working because all indoor pools were closed," said Byers. With COVID-19 restrictions easing, and more amenities open, Byers recommends swimmers choose a spot where someone is watching over them.