The number of boaters, specifically paddlers, hitting the water is on the rise over the last two years.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is reminding everyone that it's mandatory in cold weather to wear a life jacket.
The policy is in effect now through April 30.
You'll need a Coast Guard approved life jacket while on boats less than 16 feet long, or on any kayak, canoe, or paddle boat.
Accident reports show nearly 80 percent of all boating deaths happen because boaters weren't wearing a life jacket.
"Last year, there was 11 fatalities across Pennsylvania and all of those victims were not wearing lifejackets, so wearing a life jacket can drastically improve your chances of survival if you happen to fall into the water,” says Fish and Boat Commission Boating Safety Specialist Adam Spangler.
The commission adds that they've seen a drop in boating deaths during colder months since the requirement was enacted in 2012.
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