The Inland Northwest Drowning Prevention Coalition, which includes several local rescue organizations and other agencies, is campaigning to encourage boaters and anyone else around water to wear a life jacket this summer.
A release from the Spokane Regional Health District and the coalition said Big 5 Sporting Goods stores will offer 25 percent-off coupons for life jackets through Sept. 30.
In Washington, drowning is the third-leading cause of unintentional injury death for people under the age of 50.
Teens, especially boys, are at a higher risk of drowning because they are more likely to take risks and less likely to wear a life jacket, the release said.
“Anyone planning a river activity like kayaking, canoeing, rafting or floating on a tube should always check river levels and conditions before leaving home,” the release said. “Runoff from mountain snowmelt and rain can create cold, high, fast-moving water that can carry debris and be treacherous even for strong swimmers.”
