(LAKE HURON, ON) – A storm cell that quickly moved through Huron County on Canada Day resulted in two small catamarans capsizing in Lake Huron about a half kilometre from shore.
Around 1:20 p.m. on July 1, 2017 Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Huron County Paramedic Services and Canadian Coast Guard personnel were dispatched to a marine incident on Lake Huron just north of St. Joesph’s.
Five persons on two small catamarans were dumped into the lake when their vessel’s overturned. Wisely all five were wearing Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) and they also made use of their sound signalling device (whistle) to alert people on shore.
Prior to emergency crews arriving on scene the swamped sailors were able to make it safely into shore and were able to upright their vessels.
Huron OPP offers the following marine safety tips:
Life Jackets/PFD – A proper sized life jacket or PFD is required for each person on board.
Competent Operator – Take a boating safety course and always carry your operator card with you.
Check and Monitor the Marine Weather Forecast. Conditions can change quickly, particularly on larger bodies of water.
Sail Plan – Let someone know your planned route and estimated time of return. Time is of the essence in an emergency, it can make the difference between a rescue and a recovery.
Safety Equipment – Required by law, requirements vary by type of vessel and size. Ensure you have the proper equipment on board each time you sail; it won’t help you if it’s left on the dock.
Charts and Compass – Be aware of local hazards, water levels, tides and know where you are at all times.
Fuel – 1/3 to go, 1/3 to return, 1/3 in reserve.
Boat Condition – Check the hull, hoses, lines, clamps and the battery. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of a break down on the water.
Leave the Beer on the Pier – Boaters caught drinking and boating in Ontario face the same consequences as drinking & driving on land. This includes power boats, canoes, kayaks, sail boats and personal watercraft.
Anyone interested in more information on boating safety can check online at http://www.boatingsafety.gc.ca.