INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) – The boating season is peaking and water safety is at the forefront.

New statistics show the number of registered vessels in the Inland Empire is second only to Los Angeles County.

Amy Rigby at the Department of Boating and Waterways says there were 42 boating accidents last year, locally, following Orange and San Diego counties.

“The majority of people who die in these accidents drowned. Most knew how to swim, but were unable to save themselves due to injuries or cold water.”

Thirty-eight people lost their lives in California boating accidents last year.

Story Date: July 24, 2014