Manitoban's are ready for summer and can already bee seen launching their boats at their favorites spots across the province.

Water safety should be at the top of everyone's list when thinking about vacations or any activity involving water. This month across the province we have already lost more than four manitoba's to water fatalities this spring. It's North American Safe Boating Awareness Week and the key safe boating message for people who are getting ready for the season is wear your life jacket, make sure it fits and make sure it's in good condition.

Christopher Love water smart coordinator for the life saving society of manitoba says you might want to also think about attaching a whistle of noisy device thatcan be used to attract attention.

"We know people are getting their boats out and ready for the season. The number one rule is make sure you have a good life jacket and wear it anytime you are out on the boat. Also reserch says don't drink and drive well don't drink and boat either, not only is it illegally it is very dangerous. Save the alcohol for when you return to land, being out in the hot sun and rocking affects your jusgement and reaction. If you get drunk or even a bit tipsy you could end up in the water and in trouble very quickly."

Love added that we need to ensure our vessel is ready with all the appropriate safety gear before heading out onto the water

"Having the safety equipment is not enough, knowing how to use it is also important. Extra paddles, bailer, fire extinguisher, and enough fuel to get back and for a reserve during your time on the water in case it's needed are just some of the items you need to have and know how to use," explained Love.

Right now water in Manitoba is still very cold statitically bodies of water in the province are still under 15 degrees well below a human body temperature of 37 degrees. A lot of reserch has been conducted in manitoba on cold water exposure to the human body by the University of Manitoba.


Love said the University came up with a one ten one rule.

"What that means is if you fall into cold water you have one minute to control your breathing, ten minutes of meaningful movement and one hour before you go unconcious due to the affects of cold water and hypothermia," explained Love.

Overall fatalities in Canada involving water have been on the decline since 2013, however in Manitoba the numbers remain steady with and average of about twenty water fatalities a year across the province. Studies show that in Manitoba acess to water is also much higher than in other provinces.