As the weather warms up the Ontario Provincial Police is reminding boaters to practice water safety.
OPP data shows that an overwhelming majority of victims in fatal boating incidents were not wearing life jackets.
Constable Stephanie Moniz says it's important to keep these simple tips in mind to ensure everyone is safe while enjoying the water.
"Always wear your personal flotation device, ensure it fits snuggly and securely. Use common sense and operate your vessel responsibly, operate your watercraft at safe speeds," says Moniz.
She's also reminding boaters that drinking and boating is just as dangerous as drinking and driving and the same laws and penalties apply on the waterway.
The OPP has a marine unit with dedicated officers to patrol the waterways from May until October.
