Police continue to encourage safety on the water this boating season

The Chatham-Kent Police Service have issued more tips to encourage safety on the water.

“Boating is a great way to enjoy the summer with your family,” police officials said in a press release.

“We would like to offer the following safety tips to ensure everyone is safe on the water.”

The tips, include:

– By law, every boat must carry a life jacket or personal floatation device for each person on board. They do not have to be worn while on the water but should be readily available in an emergency.

– Everyone who operates a power-driven boat needs proof of competency – obtaining a Pleasure Craft Operator Card will give you the knowledge to operate your boat safely and make smart choices when boating.

– If your boat is equipped with a permanent toilet, cooking and sleeping facilities, passengers may legally consume alcohol only when the boat is anchored or docked.

– Boaters charged with impaired driving face the same consequences as those drinking and driving on land so leave the beer on the pier.

– Remember that intensifying factors known as ‘stressors’ such as sun, wind, waves and the rocking motion of the boat can greatly increase the effects of alcohol on the water.

For more information regarding safe boating, click here.

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