by Mariana Morales

The Canadian Red Cross encourages the use of lifejackets as it marks its annual campaign this May 19, 2011 as National Lifejacket Day.

As summer is just around the corner, Canadians love to take advantage of the weather and take part of water-related activities such as in lakes and pools. The Canadian Red Cross is hoping to get the message across early this year to prevent drowning.

Unfortunately, each year hundreds of Canadians die or have injuries in water-related fatalities. With just reviewing and learning how to properly put on a lifejacket and other safety equipment, it would definitely reduce the numbers.

Around 200 Canadians drown every year while boating and from those, about 88% are not wearing or wearing properly a lifejacket.

The Red Cross suggests ensuring all passengers on board boats are equipped with lifejackets, even the skilled swimmers. You should always be aware of the weather and that alcohol is not consumed while boating. Lifejackets come in a variety of colours, and it is recommended to wear bright colours so you can be easily seen.

Visit The Canadian Red Cross for safety tips and how to properly wear a lifejacket.

Also visit Life With a Baby, non-profit organization for new and expectant parents, who will be having water safety workshops this summer.

Mariana Morales is a full-time student at Conestoga College studying Print Journalism. She enjoys photography and is a volunteer at the Snap KW newspaper. What makes her different? She loves video games. In her spare time, she writes articles for a gaming website called Hooked Gamers. She hopes one day to work in the video game industry.