Boating while intoxicated is a factor in many boating fatalities/drowning deaths every year in Manitoba.

To raise awareness and reduce impairment-related deaths, Lifesaving Society Manitoba and the Canadian Safe Boating Council are stressing the importance of Boating Sober.  The campaign is supported by Manitoba RCMP, the Winnipeg Police Service, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, and MADD Winnipeg.

With the summer boating season in high gear, the August 1st – August 3rd long weekend is the perfect time to remind Canadian boaters about the need to Boat Sober.  Combined with sun, wind, waves and the rocking motion of the boat, the effects of alcohol, prescription medication, and recreational drugs on the water can be greatly increased.

Operation Dry Water – Boat Sober is aimed at reducing the number of impairment-related accidents and fatalities on the water while fostering a stronger and more visible deterrent to alcohol and drug use while boating. The end goal is to achieve safer and more enjoyable recreational boating.

For more information, visit www.csbc.ca www.betterboater.ca and www.lifesaving.mb.ca.