As British Columbia’s 19,500 square kilometres of freshwater once again draw locals and visitors, the Province reminds all to take care during summer, when drowning-related deaths spike.
A recent BC Coroners Service report shows most drowning-related fatalities in the province occur between May and August.
Boating remains the leading cause of drowning among recreational water users, accounting for 25 of 65 such deaths in 2015. In a small craft, wearing a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD) at all times is the single most effective safety step to take.
Swimmers are strongly encouraged to swim with a buddy and stay out of the water if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.