NNSL (Jun 01/98) - To make a greater impact on boaters about the importance of safety on the water, the NWT Department of Transportation has created a dramatic video as part of its fourth annual safe boating campaign.

The video, entitled "Choices We Make", produced in conjunction with the Canadian Coast Guard, consists of 24 minutes of testimony by Northern survivors and relatives of those killed in boating mishaps.

Two particular incidents are the focus: the 1996 accident in Rae that took three lives, and the 1994 tragedy in Iqaluit in which eight people died -- the worst single boating accident in the history of the NWT.

Rae is one of six communities that, as a result of the campaign, will receive 12 to 15 personal floatation devices and life jackets. boaters can borrow them from the hamlet or band offices.

Fort Simpson, Wrigley, Rae, Cambridge Bay, Gjoa Haven and Pelly Bay will also receive the safety equipment.

"We strongly support the program and we're doing everything we can to make it work," said Ralph Butterworth, senior administrative officer in Rae.

Butterworth said the memories of the boating tragedy from September of 1996 are still fresh in the minds of many in the community.

"I'm sure that it's something the people are aware of ... there is a sensitivity here," he said.

Pitseolak Alainga of Iqaluit was one of the survivors interviewed for the video. He said he's confident "Choices We Make" will make an impact on boaters.

Within his own community, Alainga said the 1994 accident made many people think twice about boating safety.

"After the accident, we started seeing families taking out their survivor suits and taking extras," he said.

The NWT has the highest per capita drowning rate in Canada, particularly for men between the ages of 16 and 35. Thirteen Northerners died in the water in 1996.

"The idea here is awareness and to reinforce the thought that ... you have to be ready out there," said Transportation Minister Jim Antoine.

"We felt that testimonials from people in the communities would be the most effective means of reinforcing the message about safety."

Coast guard spokesperson Sue McDonald said the video is to air on CBC and TVNC and will be circulated throughout NWT schools, after an official public screening takes place.

The department has also created 11 public service announcements airing in June. Many of them encourage the use of life jackets and discourage alcohol use while boating.