According to the latest data from Lifesaving Society Canada, over 450 people die from drowning every year in Canada, making it the second leading unintentional cause of death for children and the third for adults. Saskatchewan averages 24 fatal drownings per year. In an effort to promote water safety in Saskatchewan, a local response unit recently unveiled new equipment and expanded their team to help get the word out on what you should have on your boat. Kaida Cochrane, who is part of the boating safety advisory program in Echo Lake, said people don’t always think of the things they need on their boat. “We can answer any questions that people don’t know and especially for the boats … lots of people just bring life jackets. They don’t think you need a whistle or a flashlight,” she explained. The program is a new addition to the Amphibious Response Support Unit One (ARSU1), which is equipped to handle a number of challenges on the water. John Maczko, director of ARSU1, said seconds are critical during an emergency. “The sooner we can get that victim out of the water and to shore, administer first aid and get them the help they need on dry land, the better chances they have of survival,” he said. Rob Hoba, training assistant with the ARSU1, stressed the importance of wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) to everyone they speak to. “That’s the biggest thing you can do for your safety is wear a PFD. The other thing is do a sail plan. Tell people where you are going. Take care of your equipment,” he said “Having a drink is great- but do that on shore. Don’t drink and drive on water.” The program does not give out tickets but instead tries to help the public through education and the importance of various items, which by law are needed on board. “We have a little check list, making sure you have everything. In case you were stopped by a conservation officer, you have everything, you will not get a ticket. I am pretty sure tickets are between $100 to $200 minimum.” The boating safety program will be on the beach and the water as the weather permits.
