Alcohol was a factor in 42 per cent of the 18 boating fatalities investigated by the OPP this season.
Over the civic long weekend (Aug. 1 to 4), the OPP is partnering with the Canadian Safe Boating Council and enforcement agencies across Canada for Operation Dry Water, a national campaign aimed at decreasing incidents of injury and death related to operating a boat while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
The majority of boating tragedies are preventable and everyone on the water has a role to play to ensure it is a safe and enjoyable activity.
“We are all responsible for safety, as boaters, cottagers, guests as well as marina staff,” said Chief Superintendent Chuck Cox, Commander of the Highway Safety Division.
“OPP strongly encourage your family and friends to not mix drinking and boating before they head out and to report impaired boaters to police.”
In Ontario, the consumption of alcohol by anyone on board any boat underway is unlawful. Boaters are allowed to have open alcohol only on boats with permanent sleeping, cooking and washroom facilities built into the boat’s design and only when those boats are docked or at anchor.
Whether operating a motorized boat, canoe or any other type of marine vessel, doing so while impaired by alcohol or drugs is investigated similarly to driving a land vehicle and has the same consequences.
Impaired operators face criminal charges and immediate suspension of their driving privileges for motor vehicles.
OPP marine officers continue to patrol Ontario waterways, promoting safety through equipment checks, encouraging paddlers and small craft operators to wear their lifejackets and focusing on alcohol enforcement and deterring reckless behaviours.
Get on board – don’t drink and boat, police urge.
