Lifejacket use important for all

The Canadian Red Cross urges boaters of all skill levels to wear their lifejackets in the boat throughout the season, especially this holiday weekend.
According to Red Cross, a fatal mistake people make is the belief they will be able to pull on a lifejacket in an emergency.
"What people don't realize is that in the seconds when a lifejacket can save their life-when they really need it-they may not be able to put it on," says Megan Jakubowski of the Canadian Red Cross. "The lifejacket may have fallen in the water outside of their reach, or they may be unconscious or drowning."

Facts:
* Each summer, 200 Canadians drown while boating
- of these, 90 per cent are not properly wearing their lifejacket
* Even good swimmers drown. A lifejacket will help you even if you are knocked unconscious by a fall from a boat.
* Young men between 15 and 35 are at highest risk for drowning.
* A properly-worn, Canadian-approved standard lifejacket is designed to turn an unconscious person to a face up position in the water, allowing them to breathe

Lifejacket Tips:
* The best lifejacket is the one you wear! Excuses are useless.
- trying to do up a lifejacket when something goes wrong on the water is like trying to put on your seatbelt right before your car crashes
*Check lifejacket condition. Ensure there are no rips or tears, that all the zippers and buckles are working, and that the jacket is the right size.
*Supervise children at all times - flotation devices should never replace adult supervision. Always keep your children in sight, and within reach. Ensure your home pools are fenced and the gate has a self-latching mechanism
* When purchasing a lifejacket or personal floatation device:
- Ensure it is approved: appropriate sizing, label stating approved in Canada
- Check for safety features: such as a grab strap, safety strap, large collar, sturdy buckles and zippers, bright colours, reflective tape, and a whistle
- Buy one that fits properly: the jacket should be snug, but comfortable. Do not buy a jacket that is too large in hopes you or your children will grow into it

For information on lifejackets and other water safety tips, visit www.redcross.ca.

"Most drowning incidents are preventable. Closely supervise your children at all times, and remember that lifejackets really do save lives-but you have to wear them." says Jakubowski.