The BC Coroners Service is urging people to be safe if you’re heading out on the water anytime soon.
Coroner Barb McLintock says one of the biggest causes of water deaths is due to alcohol or drug impairment.
She notes that you can be charged with impaired operation of a boat, just like if you were driving a car. McLintock says that in the last study the Service conducted, they found that 40% of all accidental drownings involved alcohol consumption.
McLintock says it’s also important to ensure you’re wearing a life jacket.
