The Pennsylvania fish and boat commission is warning people who plan to boat, kayak or swim in open waters to be weary of rough conditions over the weekend.

A Thursday news release from the organization says heavy rains caused by Hurricane Ida created high and muddy water conditions in many bodies of water throughout the state.

The fish and boat commission warns boaters to refrain from entering high, fast-moving and muddy water that offers low visibility and can prevent operators from seeing submerged obstacles. They should use caution while walking along streambanks, which may remain muddy and slippery, and can lead to falls into fast-moving water.

Additionally, children should stay away from the streambank during periods of high, fast-moving water.

According to the commission's boating accident reports, roughly 80 percent of all boating fatalities occur annually because boaters were not wearing life jackets.

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