Chilliwack’s proximity to water makes it an ideal spot for fishing, boating or just relaxing by the beach.

But the region’s beauty also belies its risks.

The apparent drowning death of a 19-year-old man last weekend offers a tragic reminder of those risks.

The teen was swimming with a friend in the lagoon at Harrison Lake. The lagoon is sheltered and not that deep. But just about every other year, said the coroner who was on scene Monday, it also proves deadly.

The teen, whose body had yet to be found at press time, won’t be the last to succumb to the water this year.

On average, says the Community Against Preventable Injuries, there are more than 40 drowning-related deaths in B.C. each year.

Most victims are male; most are between the ages of 15 and 54.

In addition to the deaths, there are many more injuries that can leave people damaged for life.

“Brain, spinal cord injuries, retinal dislocation and fractures are common outcomes of drowning, leading to life-long disability in most cases,” says CAPI.

Most tragic about all these cases is that the deaths and injuries could have been prevented. Learning to swim, ensuring life jackets are worn, and that emergency equipment (including a cell phone) is at hand will help lessen the risk. So will staying away from alcohol. Roughly 25 per cent of all drowning victims have had an alcohol blood content higher than the legal limit.

But what’s also needed is a healthy respect for the water. Every year on the Chilliwack/Vedder River people get into trouble because they underestimate the power and unpredictability of the river.

A cool lake or river is an inviting thing on a hot day. But even strong swimmers have to be aware of the potential risk.

It’s a risk that can never be taken for granted. The minute it is, somebody dies.