Boating fatalities on OPP-patrolled waterways reached an eight-year high in 2017, with 31 people dying last year compared to 23 deaths in 2016.
With falling overboard being the lead contributing factor both years, the outcome could have been different for the 42 victims who were not (or not properly) wearing a personal floatation device over the two-year period.
Safe Boating Week, which took place May 19 to 25, saw the OPP partner with the Canadian Safe Boating Council to promote safety on the water.
Whether a boat operator or a passenger, police say everyone should consider these facts when heading out on the water in any type of watercraft:
– wear a personal floatation device or life jacket;
– don’t operate any watercraft while impaired;
– obtain relevant licencing;
– ensure you have all the required safety equipment;
– ensure your watercraft is water ready; and
– be wary of the dangers of cold water immersion (especially this time of year).
For information on safety on the water, visit Canadian Safe Boating Council.
