Stay sober, stay afloat: York police, partners emphasize impaired boating dangers

凭海临风

York Regional Police teamed up with MADD York Region, the Region of York to unveil 12 “Call 9-1-1” boating safety signs on river bridges and near Lake Simcoe Marinas across York Region to remind those out on the water to report impaired boating, at the Keswick Marina in Georgina, May 17.By York Regional Police photo
Stay sober, stay responsible, stay afloat this long weekend.

As the summer season approaches and boaters gear up for adventures on the water, York Regional Police (YRP) is teaming up with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada, MADD York Region and the Region of York to raise awareness about the risks of impaired boating during Safe Boating Awareness Week from May 18 to May 24.

With a focus on Lake Simcoe and its surrounding waterways, YRP officers will be vigilant in enforcing laws against boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The message is clear: “impaired boating is impaired driving, and is a criminal act,” a YRP news release notes.

"When it comes to drinking and boating, the same rules apply when out on the water as when you’re operating a car on the road. The penalties for impaired boating are also the same as drinking and driving.”

               
            
            
               
               
               
               
        
            
            
            
            
                        
            
               
               
            

         
            
            
               
               
                    
                           
                                
                                    York Regional Police teamed up with MADD York Region, the Region of York to unveil 12 “Call 9-1-1” boating safety signs on river bridges and near Lake Simcoe Marinas across York Region to remind those out on the water to report impaired boating, at the Keswick Marina in Georgina, May 17.

                                
                           
                        
                           
                                
                                    By York Regional Police photo
                                
                           
                        
                        
                    
               
            
        To enhance safety measures, 12 new signs have been installed on regional road bridges, urging individuals to report any suspicions of impaired boating by calling 9-1-1. These efforts aim to prevent needless tragedies and fatalities that occur each year on Ontario waterways.

YRP's Marine Unit, in collaboration with South Simcoe Police, will also be conducting vessel checks over the long weekend and throughout the summer. These checks ensure all boats have the necessary safety equipment on board and that operators possess a valid pleasure craft operator card.

YRP reminds all boaters of the following safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season:

Ensure everyone on board wears an approved life-jacket

Carry all necessary equipment on board in accordance with the Small Vessel Regulations

Never drink alcohol or consume drugs before operating a vessel or personal water craft

Tell someone about your plans and carry a cellphone with a fully-charged battery

Always have enough fuel on board to reach your destination

Be aware of changing weather conditions

Keep in mind, this time of the year, open water is still very cold despite rising air temperaturesFor more information on marine safety, boaters can contact the York Regional Police Marine Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7321.

来源链接：
https://www.toronto.com/news/stay-sober-stay-afloat-york-police-partners-emphasize-impaired-boating-dangers/article_84c952f1-f2c0-5dd9-8af1-2293ff1d417f.html