It’s almost time to make a splash. This week is National Summer Safety Week particularly focused on staying safe on and near water. The Canada Safety Council reports that there are fewer water-related deaths each year, but drowning is still the third leading cause of unintentional fatalities. The Canada Safety Council says that the majority of drownings occur during recreational activities such as: swimming, boating and playing near water.  While having a lifejacket on the boat is required by law, Canada Safety Council, National Projects Manager Lewis Smith says it’s much more effective and life-saving to wear a personal flotation device (PFDs) at all times.
Smith says another major risk factor is intoxication.
The Safety Council also recommends taking swimming lessons and ensuring that PFDs are approved by either Transport Canada, The Canadian Coast Guard or Fisheries and Oceans Canada.