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ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI) – A long winter and repeated cool spells have really put a damper on the aquatic recreation this year. But, it cannot last forever. Before long the lazy, hazy, days of summer will be here which means the boats , jet skis and water skis will soon be out in force.

The latest statistics from the US Coast Guard show that when it comes to boating mishaps Missouri is the 8th most accident prone state in the country, Illinois is 23rd. The overwhelming majority of fatalities nationwide in those accidents, a startling 84%, are people who drown while not wearing a life jacket.

The Missouri Highway Patrol suggests that everyone take a safe boating course before hitting the water.

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