Recreational boating deaths in Canada Causes of Accidents and Fatalities
What behaviour is a major factor in recreational boating deaths in Canada?
The consumption of alcohol in a pleasure craft is much more dangerous than most people realize. Fatigue, sun, wind and the rocking movement of the boat may all dull your senses. Alcohol intensifies this effect, reducing your reaction time, your judgement and, consequently, your ability to navigate your craft. Fatigue can also cause problems; such as being less alert and bringing on tunnel vision, thus diminishing our ability to see objects around us.
What are the other major causes of recreational boating death in Canada?
According to the Lifesaving Society, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional death for Canadians under the age of 60. Most deaths caused by drowning are preventable, by taking certain precautionary steps during watersports activities. First, a PFD should always be worn when boating.
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About one-third of all water-related deaths occurred while boating.
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The majority of fatal accidents are caused by capsizing, collision or falling overboard.
A safe driving attitude should be adopted at all times; such as looking around before taking action, keeping a low profile, driving at a safe speed, being alert to changes in weather conditions and using the right navigation lights from sunset to sunrise.
