Wellington County OPP is urging residents to always take part in regular marine safety.
On August 14th, Wellington County OPP’s Marine Unit was taking part in patrols on Conestogo Lake.
Officers stopped a vessler which had 11 people on board, six of which were under the age of 16. The vessel however only had four personal flotation devices, also known as life jackets.
As a result, a 15 year old vessel operator from Milton is facing several charges under the Canada Shipping Act such as Operating a Pleasure Craft with Copy of License on Board and Operating a Non-Human powered Pleasure Craft without Flotation Device or Life Jacket of Appropriate Size.
The accused will appear in court in Guelph at a later date.
The Wellington County OPP would like to take this opportunity to remind the public how important it is to wear a lifejacket when out on the water.
“Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) save lives! We cannot emphasize this message enough. Not only must there be enough PFDs on a vessel for everyone on board, but you should also have it on, especially children. Most marine fatalities happen unexpectedly when a small boat capsizes, or someone falls overboard. A PFD left behind is not much use. We all play a part in marine safety. Please, if you come to enjoy the beautiful lakes in Wellington County, wear a PFD if you’re out on the water.” – Acting Inspector Steve Thomas, Wellington, Interim Detachment Commander, Wellington County OPP
