According to the Société de sauvetage, alcohol accounts for 30% of annual drownings in Québec. With summer outings on the water in full swing, the organization launched a new drowning awareness campaign in mid-June.

Raynald Hawkins, the director-general of Société de sauvetage, warns, “As summer approaches, caution is crucial when on water. Drinking a glass of alcohol there is akin to having three on land.” External factors such as the sun’s heat, wind, dehydration, and the ripple of waves intensify alcohol’s effects. This slows reaction times and impairs judgment, increasing the risk of losing balance and drowning.

Safety Precautions

Hawkins reminds that boaters under the influence face penalties similar to road violations, and recommends appointing a designated overseer during water outings. “This individual can discourage challenges that arise with alcohol, often leading to injuries,” he adds.

In Case of Drowning:

If someone falls overboard, immediately throw a flotation device for them to latch onto. “Most boats carry a rope bag that can be thrown to someone in peril,” says Hawkins. If the person sinks, call 911 immediately. Ideally, all passengers should wear flotation jackets.

Data from Société de sauvetage reveals that 8 out of 10 drowning victims did not wear their flotation jackets properly, underestimating the risks of falling overboard.

Find more from Société de sauvetage  (Canada, June 2023)