2018-Apr-11
OPP Marine Incidents Reporting for 2017. Tragic lessons
The OPP investigates and tracks marine fatalities across Ontario. In the past year there were 29 incidents with 31 lives lost. The first investigation was on April 7th and the last on October 12th. Georgian Bay was by far and away the worst locale in the province with six deaths.
After 5 years of declines the last two years have seen a dramatic upswing in fatalities. 2017 was the second worst total in the last 10 years.
Thursdays were the worst day of the week with 7 incidents, followed closely by Saturdays at 6 and Sundays and Fridays and Wednesdays with 4 each. The time of day was heavily skewed to afternoons.
Males accounted for all but 2 of the 31 lives lost. Ages ranged from 8 to 85 with those in their 20s accounting for 10 and those 70 and older accounting for 6 fatalities.
The boat types may surprise many. Motorized craft accounted for 12 of the total fatalities. That means that 19 were human powered vessels, with canoes being the most common with 7
and then SUPs and kayaks and inflatables with 3 each.
And now, the saddest facts about these incidents. In 24 of the cases the deceased were not wearing life jackets and in one additional case the PFD was not properly fitted. Alchohol/drugs
were in evidence in 14 cases.
So what are the take aways?
Whether its you or family members or guests, make sure that people are in properly fitted life jackets.
They do make a difference. Especially in cold water.
Boat sober. No exceptions.
And don’t kid yourselves that human powered vessels are somehow safer and therefore less care is needed.
The facts prove otherwise.
Take extra care with seniors.
And finally, make sure those operating power boats have their proof of competency accreditation.
Being aware and following these guidelines could literally save a life!
