Leading into unofficially the first long weekend of the summer you could say that boating season is finally here and that means many people will be spending time outdoors including on the water. We talked this week to OPP Sergeant, Media Relations Officer and Community Engagement Officer Craig Soldan who says they want boaters to have fun and be safe at the same time.
Soldan says each year there seems to be a lot of avoidable tragedies which they are hoping to change.
He says being safe isn’t only just on the water but before you actually launch your vessel.
For 21 of the 23 people who lost their lives in boating or paddling incidents last year, their vessel either capsized or they fell overboard – 17 of them were not wearing a lifejacket. Soldan says do the education and bring yourself up to speed.
The OPP Marine Program has 365 officers committed to enforcing boating laws on more than 110-thousand square kilometres of lakes and rivers across the province. He says they can pull you over just like on the road.
And also as it is on the roadways, Police are always concerned with impaired operation of any vehicle or vessel.
Soldan added while you’re operating your vessel, watch for people who are not on a vessel.
OPP wish everyone a safe and happy Victoria Day long weekend both on the roads and on the water.
Written by: C. Soares