Not the best news to be sharing during Drowning Prevention Week.
Ontario Provincial Police East Region reports ten drowning-related deaths in the catchment area this season, and note that Life Jacket Use Could Reverse this disturbing trend- but only if you wear them.
Capsizing or falling overboard are the two leading causes of death in boating incidents, and wearing a life jacket can mean the difference between life and death.
The ten reported fatalities are more than double the number of drowning deaths at this time last year.
In each incident, the victim has not been wearing a life jacket.
Says Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Commander, “”This is about… changing the mindset to ensure everyone wears the proper gear, whether in a power boat or in a canoe.”
Ensure that you AND your children are protected. Wear your life jackets.
By Rick Stow