CAMBRIDGE – The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is preparing for its annual installation of warning booms or white buoys to warn paddlers, anglers and boaters to stay away from dams.
Officials say this is one of many safety procedures used by the GRCA to reduce the risk for people who enjoy water activities on local reservoirs and waterways.
“The hazards around dams can result in serious injury or death if warning signs are ignored,” states the GRCA in an April 14 press release.
The release notes orange booms at dams are gradually being replaced by yellow booms, consistent with regulations set by Transport Canada, which oversees navigable waterways.
For this reason, some of the booms are orange and some are yellow. The booms are made of plastic floats joined together by a chain.
These public safety devices are being installed upstream of GRCA dams between April 20 and May 2, though the schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions.
The water around dams can look peaceful, but GRCA officials say the area upstream and downstream is much more dangerous than it appears.
“Water surges through gates and valves or over the dams, creating strong undertows and currents around the structures, where you can be pinned below the water.”
The buoys and booms are installed each spring and then removed in the fall before winter freeze-up.
To learn more about safety around GRCA dams, visit www.grandriver.ca.
