'Fatalities every year:' How you can stay safe while boating
As boating season arrives, it’s important for Manitobans to take safety measures and remember how quickly conditions can change out on the water.
Every year, drownings take place in the province, but there are ways to prevent water emergencies. On average, there are 22 drowning deaths a year in Manitoba.
“We see fatalities every year,” said Christopher Love, the water smart and safety management coordinator with the Lifesaving Society of Manitoba.
“About 40 per cent of all the drowning deaths we see here in Manitoba occur because of boating accidents.”
Love noted that in 90 to 95 per cent of boating fatalities a life jacket was not worn or even on the boat. However, these flotation devices can be life-saving.
“[Lifejackets] are nice, they’re lightweight, they’re easy to use. They can save your life,” he said, adding that some people use different life jackets for various activities.
Along with wearing a life jacket, Love suggests following these steps when going out boating:
- Have your pleasure craft operator card with you;
- Ensure your boat is equipped with all the appropriate safety equipment;
- Be aware of the dangers of cold water; and
- Always boat sober.
“Do not be under the influence of any intoxicants, whether that is alcohol, prescription drugs, illegal drugs, cannabis, it doesn’t matter,” Love said.
Love also recommends boaters use the Weather to Boat app, which provides safety, weather and mapping information.
- With files from CTV’s Nicole Dube.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.