REND LAKE (WSIL)---As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, park rangers want to remind boaters of the importance of wearing a life jacket.
It could be the difference between life and death.
When out on a boat, drivers have to be aware of wind conditions and other boats in the area.
And one of the most important rules, is wearing a life jacket.
Many adults don't wear a life jacket while on the boat, but the sooner it's put on properly, the better.
"It takes more time to put on a life jacket in the water than you have possibly to survive. So you wanna make sure it's on and usable for it. If you fall under the water, it's an emergency, and you're not gonna be reacting the same way as if you had gotten in to go swimming, so you have to be prepared for it," said Rend Lake park ranger, Tim Bischoff.
Last weekend, a boating accident on the Ohio River killed two brothers, including one from Metropolis.
Their bodies and the 17-foot aluminum fishing boat were found without life jackets.
