As stores festoon shelves with seasonal baubles and snow begins to dust our streets and trees with layers of white gauze, summer—and the annual Red Cross message to wear a lifejacket—seems like a distant memory.
But just because cabins are closed up for the year and wide-brimmed hat are collecting dust on closet shelves, doesn’t mean that dangers around water disappear.
In fact, the past few weeks in Manitoba have seen four boating fatalities on Manitoba waterways. None of the victims were wearing lifejackets.
On average, 200 Canadians drown each year in tragic and avoidable boating-related incidents. The Canadian Red Cross strives to get that number down to zero.
If you rely on a boat to travel or are thinking about heading out onto the water any time soon, remember these tips:
Lake Winnipeg in November. Beautiful but dangerous.
- Always wear your lifejacket or personal flotation device. It keeps you at the surface if you unexpectedly or unintentionally end up in the water, reducing the initial impact of a fall into cold water, and can help you reach safety.
- If by chance you do capsize in cold water, try to get your body out of the water, as cold water depletes body heat faster than air. Climb onto the boat, haul yourself onto a log or dock, or grab a floating object.
- If you are alone in the water and wearing a Canadian approved PFD, slow down body heat loss through the Heat Escape Lessening Position (HELP). The HELP position can increase your survival time by 50 per cent. This position involves crossing your arms tightly against your chest and drawing your knees up. Remain calm and still. Do not try to swim. Unnecessary movement will use energy that your body requires to survive.
- And consider taking swimming and water safety lessons so you know how to respond in an emergency.
- This one goes without saying: Never drink alcohol while boating. It’s just not worth it.
Consider sharing this message with those you love. More information.