Lifesaving Society Manitoba is reminding residents to be aware of the different challenges and risks fall boating presents.

 

The organization says drowning can occur at any time of year, with one-third of drownings in Manitoba happening between October and April.

 

Christopher Love with Lifesaving Society shares some of the things boaters should keep in mind this fall.

 

“There are fewer boats on the water, not zero but fewer, so if you get into trouble, it’s going to take longer or you might not get help in the way that you could expect during the peak of boating season. You have to be aware of the fact that we are into colder temperatures, not just colder air temperatures but the water temperatures are getting colder too. So there is an increased danger there. I’ve heard news stories that we are supposed to hit 20 degrees Celsius here in Thompson by the end of this week. That doesn’t mean the water temperature is going to go back up to what it was during the summer. You have to dress both for the air temperature and also prepare for the water temperature.”

 

Boaters are also urged to wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device before going out on the water.

 

Catch Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon for the full interview.