Stay Safe This Labour Day Weekend

(ORILLIA, ON) – As we head into the last days of summer many Ontarians will be out on the waterways across the province. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Ontario Power Generation (OPG) remind everyone to think about their safety on rivers and lakes, especially near hydro facilities.

“You might be starting to thinking about putting your boats and docks away this time of year, but even though the season is coming to an end, it’s no time to stop thinking and using common sense on the water,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Larry Beechey. “There are inherent risks whether water is moving or not. Tragedy can strike quickly. And it has this summer. Use your common sense this final long weekend of the season,”

OPG and OPP have partnered for a number of years asking people to stay completely away from dams and hydroelectric stations. They are no place for any recreational activity during any season.

“Stay clear, and stay safe on all bodies of water especially near hydro electric power plants. Water conditions may appear safe, but can change frequently, rapidly and without warning,” says Frank Chiarotto OPG’s Senior Vice President Hydro-Thermal.

Water can be as dangerous as it is beautiful. Don’t drink and drive or drive beyond your capability and wear a life jacket. To date (August 27, 2012) twelve people have died in eleven fatal marine incidents in Ontario this summer. Eight were not wearing a pfd. It is everyone’s responsibility to be aware of the dangers whenever you are in, around, or on the water.

Educational water safety materials are available on the OPG website at www.opg.com where you can also view the popular and educational television advertisements.

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