May 15, 2014
Province Proclaims Safe Boating Awareness Week
Water safety should always be top-of-mind when boating, fishing or enjoying any other water activities, and since many Manitobans spend time at the lake this weekend, May 17 to 23 will be proclaimed as Safe Boating Awareness Week, Healthy Living and Seniors Minister Sharon Blady announced today.
“Going for a boat ride, fishing off the dock or participating in water activities are great ways to make memories with your family and to make sure you make lasting, loving memories, it is so important to be safe in the water,” Minister Blady said. “We have some of the best parks and beaches in the country and I’m encouraging all Manitobans to get out and enjoy these attractions.”
During Safe Boating Awareness Week, the Lifesaving Society and the Manitoba Coalition for Safer Waters have partnered with the Canadian Safe Boating Council to promote safe, responsible boat-operator practices and educate the public on the importance of safe boating to decrease the number of boating fatalities that occur each year during boating season.
“A hundred lives would be saved every year in Canada if every boater took basic safety precautions,” said Carl Shier, chair, Manitoba Coalition for Safer Waters. “From wearing a lifejacket to never drinking and boating, we’d like to see everyone have fun while practicing safe boating.”
All boaters must possess a pleasure craft operator’s competency card. Courses can be taken through six-hour classes provided by the Lifesaving Society in Manitoba or a number of online providers.
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