PITTSBURGH — There is a new public education safety paddle craft course for people interested in paddle sports.

It was developed by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in cooperation with the American Canoe Association.

For information about this paddle craft course, visit http://www.americancanoe.org/page/AUXPAD.

A critical aspect for water enthusiasts is to remember a life jacket at all times. Last year, about 78 percent of all boating fatalities were from drowning. More than 84 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.

Wearing a life jacket is the single most important action that boaters can take to reduce the risk of dying in a boating accident.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the civilian component of the Coast Guard and assists it in on missions.