South Bruce OPP Marine Unit offers tips for safe vessel operations

(LAKE HURON, ON) - Members of the South Bruce OPP Marine Unit will be out on area waterways this summer, answering calls, inspecting vessels, and encouraging safe operation.

This past weekend, the unit was out patrolling the waters of Lake Huron.

Saturday, May 25, the South Bruce OPP Marine Unit inspected vessels on Lake Huron and found that all had the proper safety equipment on board and had no alcohol or other intoxicants with them.

Sunday, May 26, at the mouth of the Saugeen River in Southampton, the South Bruce OPP Marine Unit encountered two kayakers who were stopped and found not to have all required safety equipment on board. One person was charged with "Operating human-powered pleasure craft without prescribed vessel safety and navigation equipment on board" contrary to the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act 2001.

While on patrol off Port Elgin, the South Bruce OPP Marine Unit encountered a disabled power boat. The vessel was taken in tow back to Port Elgin Harbour for the safety of the occupants. A vessel safety equipment inspection was completed, and the operator of the vessel was charged with "Operating non-human-powered pleasure craft without personal flotation device or lifejacket of appropriate size for each person on board" contrary to the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act 2001.

Fines for both charges were $200 plus victim fine surcharges.

The South Bruce OPP Marine Unit wants everyone to have a safe and enjoyable summer on the water. Vessel owners and vessel operators are asked to review these safety tips before leaving the dock:
 

• Life jackets - a proper-sized life jacket is required for each person on board.
• Competent operator - it is a requirement to take a boating safety course and always carry your operator card with you.
• Check and monitor the Marine Weather Forecast - conditions can change quickly, particularly on larger bodies of water.
• Sail plan - let someone know your planned route and estimated time of return. Time is of the essence in an emergency, it can make the difference between a rescue and a recovery. 
• Safety Equipment - required by law; requirements vary by type of vessel and size. Ensure you have the proper equipment on board each time you sail; it won't help you if it's left on the dock.
• Charts and compass - be aware of local hazards, water levels, tides and know where you are at all times.
• Fuel tank - one-third to go, one-third to return, one-third in reserve.
• Boat condition - check the hull, hoses, lines, clamps, and the battery. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of a break down on the water.
• Leave the beer on the pier - boaters caught drinking and boating in Ontario face similar consequences to drinking and driving on dry land. This includes power boats, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, sailboats and personal watercraft.

For more information on boating safety, check on-line at www.boatingsafety.gc.ca.

The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.