OPP urges safety on waterways ahead of Canada Safe Boating Week

Ontario Provincial Police is reminding boaters and paddlers to prioritize safety as Canada Safe Boating Week approaches.

The campaign, led by the Canadian Safe Boating Council, runs from May 19 to 25 and aims to increase compliance with safe boating measures and reduce fatalities on Ontario’s waterways.

Officer patrols will focus on impaired boating, lifejacket requirements, Liquor Licence Act violations, and Canada Shipping Act offences through the week.

“The data makes a compelling case for the value in wearing a lifejacket. It is virtually impossible to drown if you are floating in the water with a properly fitted lifejacket,” said OPP in a news release ahead of the safety week.

“During Safe Boating Awareness Week, boaters and paddlers are encouraged to raise their awareness around every aspect of safe traveling on waterways.”

Authorities said that means “over and above” wearing the right lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) and boating sober and drug-free – individuals should ensure that their vessels are prepared and safe for the season, take a boating course, be alert and cold water safe.

The OPP’s marine program oversees 95 per cent of Ontario’s lakes and rivers with 134 vessels and nearly 400 officers.

Between 2020 and 2024, 131 people died in boating incidents on OPP-patrolled waters, including 56 paddlers. Of those, 34 were canoeists, 17 were kayakers, and five were on stand-up paddleboards.

Authorities emphasized that lifejackets not only keep wearers afloat but also help turn unconscious individuals onto their backs to prevent drowning.

Boaters are urged to ensure their vessels meet safety requirements, including carrying:

• a 15m floating heaving line,
• a watertight flashlight and pealess whistle (or sound-signaling device,)
• a bailing bucket and paddle/oar,
• and lifejackets or PFDs for every passenger – with self-inflating PFDs having to be worn at all times.

Additionally, depending on the size of the vessel and motor being used, proper flares and a fire extinguisher may required.

Age restrictions for operators include:

• Under 12: May operate boats with up to 10 hp
• 12–16: Up to 40 hp
• 16+: No restrictions
• Under 16: Banned from operating personal watercraft – such as Sea-Doos, jet-skis or Waverunners.

All motorized vessel operators must carry a valid Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card or equivalent proof of competency.

“Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, please dial 911 or contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122,” said police.