Summers in Alberta are a great time to hit the lakes and rivers.
The increase in people using natural water ways also leads to increased risk of accidents and drowning.
This summer, whenever operating a boat, canoe, or other watercraft take every possible precaution to ensure a safe trip.
The Alberta RCMP reminds boaters to always practice safe boating and not operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
In 2017, drinking and boating accounted for about 40 per cent of boating related fatalities in Canada.
The RCMP recommends the following tips to be safe on the water this summer:
Since 2016, 57 people have drowned in Alberta.
Of those drownings, 67 per cent occurred on lakes or rivers.
