Despite impaired boating being illegal in Canada Lifesaving Society Manitoba and MADD Winnipeg say a number of boating fatalities involve alcohol or other substances.

Lifesaving Society Manitoba’s Doctor Christopher Love says there are concerns about impaired boating in Manitoba.  He explains they see depending on the exact age groups and depending on the exact year anywhere between 40 and 70 percent of all drowning incidents involve intoxication and that intoxication primarily is alcohol but there are some cases with other intoxicating substances whether its prescription drugs, over the counter drugs, illegal substances, cannabis etcetera but those all count as very very small factors in comparison to the alcohol consumption factor.

Love explains the penalties impaired boaters face when caught are the same as impaired drivers.

Depending on the exact circumstances that could mean losing your license, getting your boat impounded, getting fined, going to court or even jail.