Stratford Mayor Jim Miron joined police officers and other town leaders to celebrate National Safe Boating Week Tuesday.

Coast Guard officials say the public is unaware of how dangerous the water can be and this week will hopefully educate residents about safe boating techniques. The Coast Guard says nearly 80 percent of deaths on the water occur in non-motorized boats, like kayaks and canoes because many boaters go without lifejackets.

Officials say many boaters are unaware lifejackets are required by law. The chair of the Stratford Waterfront and Harbor Commission says he hopes southwestern Connecticut residents will heed warnings and wear lifejackets on all types of boats.