You've been waiting to get back on the water and the sport fishing season is nearly here in the Parkland. The season will open in the southern division on May 15.
This includes Dauphin, Swan River, and Brandon areas. And while you book your fishing trip in the area, it's a good time to brush up on some safety tips while out on the water. On average, in Manitoba over the past five years, 22 people lose their life to drowning. That number is down slightly from the 10-year average of 24.
Dr. Christopher Love with the Lifesaving Society of Manitoba says preparing for the worst possible scenario will allow you to have a great day.
"The biggest thing that we stress is wearing lifejackets, it really is the most important thing that can save you," said Dr. Love. "If you do happen to fall into the water, your lifejacket can save your life."
With the colder water temperatures, your body will suffer a cold shock if you do fall into the water. Your heart will start racing and if you aren't wearing a lifejacket, you could potentially get water in your system which could cause you to drown. Love says another safety tip is to never head on the water under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
"When we do see injuries or fatalities, alcohol or drug involvement is a big factor in those cases," said Dr. Love. "We want everyone to have a ton of fun on the water, but we want everyone to do so while sober."
While the fishing season opens in the southern division this weekend, fishing in the northwest and north-central divisions of the province will be permitted on May 22. It's also highly recommended that you tell other family members or friends where you are going and when you plan on returning.
Additional information can be seen at Manitoba's angler's guide.
