BOARD [Staying Safe on Ontario’s Waterways
Orillia, Ontario]
SUPER [Sgt. Dave Moffat
Commander, OPP Marine Safety Unit]
Sgt. Dave Moffat: Our job is to make sure the waterways in Ontario are safe. We look for vessels that are jeopardizing the safety of all the other vessels that are trying to enjoy their day. We see a lot of vessels that are not practicing safety first. They’re driving irresponsibly and liquor, liquor is the big thing – liquor does not belong on the water — it belongs on the pier where it should stay. We go out … we check for compliance — we look for life jackets — all this pertinent safety equipment. When there’s life jackets on board and you’re in the water the life jacket is useless to you, so wear your life jacket, it could save your life.
It’s just like seat belts in cars. Now we’re finding the kids are telling their parents to start wearing their life jackets. This is something that’s a very positive element.
When you go out on the water please be prepared. Be prepared on the number of people you have on board. Make sure you have the proper safety equipment. I implore the public to start to start wearing a life jacket and to think safety first.
BOARD [For more information visit:
Ontario.ca/opp]