The Grey Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Marine Unit have been patrolling the waters in the Grey Bruce area.
Earlier this month, officers were on patrol on Lake Eugenia, Chesley Lake, Colpoys Bay, Georgian Bay and the Oliphant Fishing Islands. Officers stopped and inspected a total of 178 watercrafts including stand up paddleboards (SUP’s), kayaks, sailboats, and personal watercraft (PWC’s). Three individuals operating paddleboards were charged under Small Vessel Regulations for failing to have safety equipment including a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) and one individual was warned for operating pleasure craft without copy of licence on board.
The OPP want to remind the public that paddleboards, kiteboards, kayaks, canoes, inflatable boats, and other beach launched craft are vessels under the Canada Shipping Act and all require a lifejacket or PFD and other safety equipment specific to the craft they are operating. Fines for not having the required equipment can far exceed the cost of the safety equipment purchase, not to mention the potential cost of lives lost in not having safety equipment when it’s needed.
Find out what equipment you need to have for the type of craft you are using by searching: Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide.
Remember, Lifejackets save lives, but only if they are worn.
