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Water safety rules enforced: Gatineau police patrolling the river
With warm weather and summertime activities in full swing, Gatineau Police (SPVG) Water Patrol will be present on the Ottawa River to keep people safe. According to a press release issued by the SPVG on June 10, police boats have been present on the river since June 5.
Noticing a considerable increase in new and less experienced boaters this year, the SPVG said its officers have checked more than 190 boats so far, and have issued around 30 tickets to boaters for safety infractions such as boating without a lifejacket, not having enough lifejackets on board, boating without a license, and boating without safety equipment. It added that police have towed a disabled boat out of the river, and have removed 10 paddle-boarders from the water for not having safety equipment.
Stating that the Ottawa River’s water levels are currently low, the SPVG emphasizes the importance of respecting safety regulations and civic responsibilities when practicing water sports and operating boats and other kinds of watercraft, and being familiar with the waterway before hitting the river. The SPVG says people operating gas or electric motorized watercrafts have a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card. To avoid unforeseen problems, people are reminded to examine boats and equipment and to consult the weather forecast before going out on the water, and to travel at safe speeds in secure surroundings.
Stating that boaters must have readily-accessible, well-maintained and functional safety equipment at all times when out on the water, the SPVG says necessary equipment varies depending on the size and length of a boat – emphasizing the need to be informed about one’s responsibilities before hitting the water. Along with properly-fitted life jackets for everyone on board – even on paddle boards and kayaks - such equipment may include a fire extinguisher, a waterproof flashlight and pyrotechnic flares, and navigation lights when the sun is down, as well as a manual propulsion anchor with at least 15 metres of rope, a sound-signaling gadget, and a buoyant heaving line.
The SPVG advises people to consult Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide for particular rules with the respective watercraft. Alcohol on the river is highly discouraged, stating that watercraft users are subject to the same laws as people driving cars – maximum legal limit of 80 mg per 100 mm blood-alcohol level.
Urging people to call 9-1-1 in case of emergency, the SPVG gave a reminder that the very high frequency band named Channel VHF 16 is not monitored at all times.
