Authorities warn public to avoid restricted areas near hydroelectric facilities

An undated photo of an Ontario Provincial Police vehicle parked near an Ontario Power Generation warning sign. (Supplied/Ontario Provincial Police)

Ontario Provincial Police is urging the public to obey safety signage and barriers near hydroelectric stations after a trespassing incident in Powassan.

On Sunday, police charged an individual for bypassing safety fencing to fish downstream of a generating station.

Authorities emphasize that restricted waterways near Ontario Power Generation (OPG) facilities pose serious risks, including sudden changes in water flow, strong undercurrents and unpredictable conditions.

Dangers of restricted waterways

“Waterways near Ontario Power Generation hydroelectric facilities are subject to sudden and unpredictable changes in water flow and levels,” OPP said in a news release Aug. 3. “These changes can create dangerous undercurrents and rapidly shifting conditions, even if the water appears calm.”

Areas marked with buoys, fencing, or signage are off-limits for public safety, and entering them can be life-threatening. Both OPG and OPP warn that enforcement action – including trespassing charges – may be taken against violators.

Stay clear, stay safe

As you enjoy the outdoors this summer, authorities advise the public to:

• Water near generating stations can change quickly and without warning.
• Turbulent currents and undertows may not be visible on the surface.
• If you see barriers, fencing or signage - ‘Stay clear. Stay safe.’

For more information on water safety around hydroelectric facilities, visit OPG’s water safety webpage.