It is normal for ICBC to issue a reminder about safety on the roads heading into a long weekend, but there is also a reminder about being extra careful on the rivers and lakes.

The B.C. Coroner's Service has issued a public safety bulletin not only reminding residents to be careful near waterways, but to warn visitors about the hazards posed by rivers and lakes.

In July, there were 12 drownings in the province, three of the accidents involved visitors from outside the province.

Assistant Deputy Chief Coroner Jeff Dolan says there are hazards which residents consider common knowledge like:

-cold temperatures of rivers and lakes

-swiftness of the current

-slipperiness of rocks along shoreline

-steep drop-offs in lakes and rivers which pose hazards to those who are not strong swimmers.

On the roadways, ICBC is reminding everyone to slowdown and drive safely.   

Last year, there were more than 1,700 crashes on the BC Day long weekend resulting in 550 injuries and 2 deaths.  Solicitor General John Les says police will be out in full force and will be targeting speeders and aggressive drivers, "The most effective way to reduce crashes is through a combination of education and enforcement. Over the long weekend and throughout the summer, expect to see both."

 The province has added 40 new highway webcams if you need to check out a highway before heading out.  That brings to 56 the number of web cams focused on major intersections or highways in the province.  You can find the real time photos by visiting www.drivebc.ca