The U.S. Coast Guard hosts a boating safety event, following several boating fatalities in 2011.

Nothing says summer more than being on the water.  But there's a word of caution this Memorial Day weekend.

Last year, Maryland saw 24 boating fatalities; that's double the average for the last 16 years, according to Maryland Natural Resources Police.  Staying safe is pretty simple, they say.

The U.S. Coast Guard joined in to provide a free boating safety demo in Annapolis on Saturday.

"I think that people ought to stop saying 'I don't want to wear a life jacket’ and go out and find one that fits them and suits them," said Thornell Jones, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.    

The Coast Guard showed off its 45-foot search and rescue boat that is ready to respond on a moment's notice.  Natural Resources Police says the accidents are often attributed to alcohol, not paying attention, and not wearing a life jacket.