Officials with Coast Guard Sector Buffalo, which oversees the St. Lawrence Seaway, are urging those who plan to recreate on the water during Labor Day weekend, or at any other time, to take appropriate safety precautions.

Labor Day weekend marks the traditional end of the beach and boating season across the nation, and is usually one of the busiest for the Coast Guard.

Although the Coast Guard’s efforts in August resulted in 20 lives saved and more than 186 lives assisted, three people died, Coast Guard said.

Coast Guard officials say people should follow these tips:

- Wear a lifejacket. All drowning victims this year were not wearing life jackets, the Coast Guard claims. While there are many factors that can contribute to boating and watercraft accidents, a life jacket can save a life even after an accident has occurred.

- Drink responsibly - The legal blood alcohol content limit for recreational vessel operation is .08 percent. Dehydration and long term exposure to sunlight exaggerates the effects of alcohol on the body and slows cognitive reaction time, Coast Guard said.

- Take appropriate safety precautions when using a kayak, canoe or paddleboard. Wear a life jacket, monitor the weather and stay clear of busy waterways. Always label one’s paddlecraft with a name and emergency contact number.

- Use caution when operating personal watercraft and other high-powered watercraft. Stay well clear of other vessels, as larger boats are not nearly as maneuverable or capable of altering course quickly to avoid an accident.

- People should inform someone of where they are going and when they will be back.

- People in distress on the water should immediately contact the U.S. Coast Guard at 716-843-9527 or via VHF-FM on channel 16.