The B.C. Coroners Service is urging boaters to wear properly-fitted life jackets when they take to the water this weekend, saying it is the most effective step in preventing a tragedy.
The Coroners Service cited a University of Washington study that suggests as many as one in two recreational-boating deaths would be prevented by this one step alone.
Another study, from the New York state health department, found that more than 70 per cent of recreational boating deaths occurred when the person became separated from their water craft, either through falling overboard, the boat capsizing, or choosing to go for a swim.
A Coroners Service review of drowning deaths over five-and-a-half years found that 37.5 per cent involved people engaged in some type of boating activity. The second most dangerous activity was swimming at 28 per cent.
The total number of accidental drownings from Jan. 1 to July 29 this year in B.C. is 45, exactly the average of the past five years and a slight decrease from 2012 figures.
"However, August is historically the month with the highest number of drowning cases, prompting a need for ongoing vigilance," the Coroners Service said.
Some further advice was also issued Thursday:
- Alcohol and water-related activities do not mix. Alcohol impairs co-ordination and judgment, and this substantially adds to the risk inherent in swimming or boating.
- Always supervise children anywhere near water. Pre-school-aged children should be kept within arm's length of an adult as they can drown in only a few centimetres of water, and the drowning is often silent.
- Never dive into unknown waters. Unexpectedly shallow water or hidden obstacles underwater can easily prove fatal.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, and also do a visual inspection of the area. Do not head blindly down a river or stream without being aware of the water conditions further downstream.
