Boating incidents investigated by the OPP have revealed a 10-year low in boating fatalities, but not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) or lifejacket continues to be a contributing factor in the overwhelming majority of the deaths each year.
The OPP is partnering with the Canadian Safe Boating Council and other marine safety partners to take part in Safe Boating Week, May 16 to 22.
Heading into the campaign, the OPP is sharing facts about boating fatalities in Ontario and asking boaters to do their part to stay safe this boating season.
Last year 20 people died in boating incidents on OPP-patrolled waterways which is the lowest number of marine fatalities the OPP has seen in the last ten years.
While the OPP is pleased to see this general downward trend, it is issuing an important reminder that wearing a lifejacket or PFD significantly increases survivability, should a mishap occur.
Police say not wearing this equipment continues to be a contributing factor in the overwhelming majority of boating fatalities from year to year on OPP-patrolled waterways.
In 2014 there were 20 boating deaths, 17 of them attributed to not wearing a PFD or lifejacket.
By contrast, in 2010 there 28 boating deaths, 22 of them attributed to not wearing a PFD or lifejacket.
Water still chilly
While the warmer weather is here, the water is still chilly. The OPP is reminding boaters that most lakes and rivers, especially those in northern Ontario are still very cold and the threat of cold water immersion means it is important to be prepared and wear a PFD or lifejacket.
There are four phases of cold water immersion (hypothermia is one of them) and each of the four phases pose unique physiological challenges for someone who finds themselves in cold water as a result of a boating incident.
Gasp reflex
When first entering very cold water, people experience an automatic gasp reflex and if their head is underwater, water may be inhaled into their lungs. This is one way drowning occurs.
Wearing a PFD or lifejacket keeps a victim’s head above water during this critical moment and can save a life.
Motorized boats are not the only culprits in boating deaths, police note.
In 2014, five paddling crafts, four canoes and one kayak, were involved in boating fatality incidents investigated by the OPP. While they are increasing in popularity and a great way to experience the waterways, don’t leave your safety on shore … a paddle PFD is your best accessory.
Boat passengers and the public play a role in keeping it a safe and enjoyable boating season. If you are a passenger being invited for a boat ride, take responsibility for your own safety and insist on wearing a PFD or lifejacket. If the driver of the boat does not have one on board for you, do not go out.
Stop impaired boaters
If you suspect that a boater is operating their vessel while impaired, call 911 to make a report.
By taking charge of your own safety and taking action against boaters who place you and others in a potentially dangerous situation, you could be averting a tragedy on the water.
The OPP is counting on everyone being on board with making it a safe boating season in Ontario, police state.
