Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and the OPP have joined forces to issue a “Stay Clear, Stay Safe” water safety message around dams, hydroelectric stations and surrounding waterways.
“We’re delighted to be working with the OPP in delivering the Stay Clear, Stay Safe message, especially as the public’s safety is a number one priority for both organizations,” said John Murphy, executive vice-president of OPG, in a news release. “Warmer weather brings increased recreational activity around water and it is vitally important for outdoor enthusiasts to understand the need for heightened awareness and safety around waterways, dams and hydroelectric stations.”
While the Stay Clear, Stay Safe is an ongoing educational campaign for OPG, a new advertising campaign highlighting the dangers in coming too close to hydroelectric dams and stations will be launched across Ontario. The 30-second commercial, which will run from mid-May through August, features Const. Larry Butterfield from the OPP SAVE team (Snowmobile, ATV and Vessel Enforcement), showing how water around dams and hydroelectric stations can change in an instant.
“With the OPP’s support, we hope the message of staying clear to stay safe this summer will be emphasized,” continued Murphy in the release.
OPG operates 35 hydroelectric stations, a green power portfolio of 29 small hydroelectric plants, and 240 dams on 26 river systems. Most of these facilities are remotely controlled by operators kilometres away. To meet fluctuating demands for electricity throughout the day, these operators open or close dams or start or stop generators, as needed. This causes frequent and rapid changes in the water flow and levels, often creating strong undertows, turbulence and sudden, powerful gushes of water moving downstream.
All waterways where an OPG dam or hydroelectric station is located have well-positioned warning signs, buoys, fences, booms and barriers.
“We urge everyone to obey these warning signs and barriers,” said Murphy. “They are there for the public’s safety and to let everyone know that the areas around the signs are dangerous, so stay clear.”
OPG also recommends that people stay away from the edge of waterways where footing may be slippery and not to wade into moving water. Be aware of changing water levels or any sign of increased currents and always stay a safe distance outside of warnings and barriers. Wearing a personal flotation device while around water provides added safety.
The OPG Stay Clear, Stay Safe public service campaign also stresses that parents set an example for children who may not be aware of the dangers. This can be done by explaining what the warning signs and other barriers mean, as well as identifying where they can and cannot go.
OPG offers the public a number of educational materials on water safety around dams and hydroelectric stations including a brochure, a DVD for adults and an educational interactive computer game for children. These, along with further safety tips, can be obtained free-of-charge by visiting www.opg.com.
