The Canada Day long weekend is a popular time for recreational boating. But with the number of boating deaths this year in Ontario at more than double what they were this time last year, BOATsmart! is advising boaters to keep safety top of mind.
“Boaters are heading out to have a good time, and because it’s a recreational activity they may think that some rules don’t apply,” cautioned Cameron Taylor, president of BOATsmart!
In Ontario alone, there have been 11 boating-related fatalities so far this year, up from five last year. The Ontario Provincial Police this week called the number “alarmingly high,” noting most of the deaths were preventable.
Of the 11 Ontario deaths, the OPP said nine victims were not wearing life jackets, and alcohol was involved in at least three cases.
According to Taylor, the most important ways to stay safe are to get educated, get licensed, and use common sense.
Canadian law requires that anybody operating a motor boat in Canada requires a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. But BOATsmart! statistics show that 77 per cent of boaters do not have proper licenses. Boaters without a license are subject to a $250 fine.
To get the license, boaters can go online and complete a series of lessons and then a test.
The OPP and BOATsmart! also urge boaters to always wear properly-fitting lifejackets. About 79 per cent of boaters who drowned between 1996 and 2010 were not wearing life jackets, BOATsmart! statistics say.
Life jackets are particularly important after this year’s brutal winter, Taylor said. Most bodies of water are still unusually cold and boaters may experience shock if they fall in. A life jacket can help a shocked body stay afloat.
Taylor also said boaters should be cautious about drinking while on the water, because the sun, wind, and motion of the water can all increase the effects of alcohol.
“Many boaters may not realize that the negative effects of alcohol are up to four times greater when consuming alcohol on the water as opposed to on land,” Taylor said.
He suggested that boaters leave alcohol on the shore and instead stay hydrated by bringing water on the boat.
“Boating’s a lot of fun. You don’t necessarily need alcohol to have a great time,” Taylor said.
