The highest drowning rates in 2010-2014 were once again found among young adults aged 20-34, with 20-24-year-olds having the highest death rate of all age groups. High drowning rates were also found among middle-aged adults in their late forties and fifties. Adults 50-54 years of age had the highest death rate in this group.
Most drowning victims never intend to get in the water. And trying to put a lifejacket on just before you capsize is like trying to buckle a seat belt just before you have a car crash.
Canadian waters are cold most of the time. Heavy gasping, uncontrollable hyperventilation and cold shock can occur in just the first minute of entering cold water. If the cold shock doesn't kill you, time will. But if you're wearing your lifejacket, you'll float and have a chance to survive a fall into cold water
Alcohol and boats don’t mix; Adopt a zero-tolerance for drinking and boating. Boaters under the influence could lose their driver’s license under the Criminal Code of Canada.
More than 50% of those who died last year while boating discovered too late that even one alcoholic drink can affect balance, slow reaction time and impair ability to think clearly.
One of the leading risk factors of drowning is swimming and boating alone. Always boat or swim with a buddy. If something goes wrong, they will be able to help.
Many adult drowning victims were out after daylight. Ensure you have the proper equipment and navigation lights if boating after dark.
