The unseasonably hot temperatures have caused many in Central New York to take to the waters for a cool down.
But some are not doing so safely.
There have been four reported drownings in Central New York just this past week. With temperatures expected to rise again later this weekend, the United State Coast Guard is urging people to take more precautions.
Petty Officer Walter Kendall patrols Lake Ontario for the Coast Guard's Oswego station. He says the number one thing people need more of, is communication. Kendall says,
"Before you go out, have a game plan, tell somebody where you're going."
Kendall says in addition to communicating more, people should also wear a life vest at all times, bring a cell phone, and limit alcohol use while in and around the water.
Kendall hopes the recent drownings will teach people how important it is to be safe on the water.
"We have to learn from everybody else's mistakes. Unfortunately it's hard to learn from somebody else's tragedy. It's definitely a good eye opener."
