Sudbury and Espanola OPP are issuing boaters a reminder of laws related to boating safety.
Since the May long weekend, the OPP in this area have laid a total of seven charges relating to personal flotation devices (PFDs), four safety equipment charges, three liquor licence act charges, one charge for operating a pleasure craft without prescribed competency and one charge for speeding while operating a personal watercraft.
Despite “continuous reminders and warnings regarding personal flotation devices and the necessity to have them on-board,” some boaters are still not complying with the law, stated a release from the OPP.
Every operator of a pleasure craft is responsible for having a lifejacket or PFD of appropriate size, on-board, for every person on the vessel.
These PFD’s must be in good condition (zippers, buckles, straps, fabric, seams) and must be Canadian-approved. Those breaking this law will receive a fine of $240.
In 2008, 30 people died in marine incidents in OPP patrolled areas, the release said. The contributing factor for 23 of these fatalities was that PFD’s were not used.
By September 15, 2009, everyone who operates a motorized pleasure craft must have and carry proof of competency on board at all times. Proof of competency is not required for pleasure craft without motors.
Right now, you must have proof of competency on board if you were born after April 1, 1983, or if you are operating a motorized boat under four metres. This includes a personal watercraft (PWC). Boaters are reminded to carry their card (or a copy thereof) with them at all times, as the $305 fine for failing to provide proof of competency is the same as if you did not have an operator's card at all.
The speed limit on Ontario waterways, other than narrow rivers or where other speed limiting signs are present, is 10 km/h within 30 m of shore, except when the vessel is travelling perpendicular to the shore for the purpose of dropping off a water skier or tuber.
Also, the offence of careless operation includes operating at high speeds near swimmers and non-powered vessels and weaving through congested areas at slow speeds. The total fine for this offence is $240.
Some boating offences can result in fines to both the operator of the boat as well as to the person who allowed the operation of the boat. For example, allowing someone under the age of 16 to operate your PWC. For more information on licences, equipment, boating offences etc.., go to www.boatingsafety.gc.ca. A copy of the 2009 Safe Boating Guide is also available, free of charge, at the Sudbury or Espanola OPP Detachments.
