Anyone heading to the water this weekend is urged to leave their inflatable rafts on the beach.

The Ontario branch of the Lifesaving Society stated that inflatable rafts, which come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, pose a danger when swimmers take them into the waterways.

Stephanie Bacalar, the organization's communications director working to prevent drowning, said that inflatable rafts may be popular, but they are intended for swimming pools or are tethered.

She also added that the majority of drowning incidents in Ontario occur in open water, and people can overestimate their ability to swim to safety.

Ontario Parks stated that lakes and rivers can be unpredictable due to strong currents, waves, and winds, making it easy for inflatable rafts to drift into deep water.

The Ontario Provincial Police also noted an increase in calls regarding drowning incidents, as earlier this week, Hamilton police found the body of a 14-year-old boy who had gone missing in Lake Ontario.

Officials remind those wishing to swim to wear a life jacket and avoid consuming alcohol while in open water.