Canadian Safe Boating Council and Lifesaving Society Manitoba are asking a little extra from boaters this year.

"Only take people from your immediate household if you're going out on a boat," says Lifesaving Society Manitoba Water Smart Coordinator Dr. Christopher Love, "and if you're on the dock you still need to practice that physical distancing."

Love describes the detail of the releases accompanying illustration saying "the two-metre distance that is recommended is approximately half of a canoe, a fishing rod length or one and a half wake-boards as just a general guideline."

Along with the new recommendations Love suggests wearing your lifejacket, remaining sober, taking a boating course, being aware of the risks of cold-water immersion, and having your vessel prepared.

Love is also concerned there could be an increase in drownings this summer. “Manitobans who have been staying at home are going to want to get out in the warmer weather and may well end up in the water in less safe locations because normal swimming locations are close.”

North American Safe Boating Awareness Week takes place across Canada from May 16th to May 22nd, kicking off with Wear Your Lifejacket to Work Day this Friday, May 15th.