(NORTH BAY, ON) – Ontario Provincial Police officers across North East Region have responded to a number of water related incidents of which some have resulted in fatalities.
These fatalities serve as an important reminder that exercising water safety is not just for boaters. It is equally critical where swimming and any other activities in and around the water occur including diving.
Before venturing into any water related activities, simple things like wearing a life jacket or personal floatation device (PFD) for weak or non-swimmers, supervising children at/near pools or other bodies of water, making yourself familiar of potential hazards before diving in familiar and unfamiliar areas, swimming with a buddy, avoid alcohol and never underestimate the power of currents – can all lessen the chances of injury or death
In addition, boaters are reminded to continue complying with safety regulations. Ensuring you have the required safety equipment on board each time you leave the dock.
– Life jackets
– Competent operator
– Sail plan
– Safety Equipment
– Charts and compass
– Fuel tank
– Boat condition
– Leave the beer on the pier
– Check and monitor the Marine Weather Forecast
This can make the difference between a rescue and a recovery should you have any problems while you are out on the water.
For more information check online at http://www.boatingsafety.gc.ca or http://www.redcross.ca/what-we-do/swimming-and-water-safety/swimming-boating-and-water-safety-tips