In the wake of a crash that seriously injured a nine-year-old boy, police are issuing safety tips for people heading out on the water on a Sea-Doo or other personal watercraft (PWC).
South Porcupine OPP is reminding people that the operator of any vessel on the water with a motor must possess a Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC) or proof of competency equivalence.
No one under the age of 16 is allowed to operate a PWC, regardless of supervision, says OPP.
"Safety is paramount for all lake users — boaters, kayakers, and swimmers. These rules are in place for a reason. Persons under 16 years old may lack the marine experience required to operate a jet-propelled watercraft. These operate differently than a propeller-driven vessel and reach speeds that can be too fast for novice operators," said Const. Michelle Simard of the South Porcupine OPP in a news release.
On July 4, there was a serious incident at Kamiskotia Lake involving a personal watercraft and a boat parked on a boat lift. A nine-year-old boy — Kaiden Bouchard — is still at CHEO in Ottawa recovering from his injuries, according to a GoFundMe set up for the family.
The investigation into that incident is ongoing, said Simard.
Someone under 16 years of age operating a PWC could face up to a $125 fine, while the owner who allowed the operation could be fined $305.
The horsepower age restrictions are:
- A child under 12 years of age may operate a boat up to 10 HP
- 12- to 16-year-olds may operate a boat up to 40 HP
- Anyone under the age of 16 is not permitted to operate a PWC such as a Sea-Doo, Jet-Ski or Waverunner, regardless of supervision
- For people 16 years and older, there are no HP restrictions
"The OPP would like to remind operators there is a zero tolerance for alcohol/drug consumption while underway and lifejacket or Personal Floatation Device (PFD) compliance. Impaired operation on the water carries the same fines and penalties as on the highway. Help keep our waterways safe for everyone. Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, please dial 911 or contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122," reads the news release.
