Boating enthusiasts are being reminded to follow safe practices while out on the lake.
Woodlawn Regional Park manager Aaron-Lee Soparlo spoke with the Mercury regarding boating safety, after a story published in the Mercury highlighted an accident at Boundary Dam in late June, which resulted in a sunken boat.
"Brochures and booklets are handed out at the gatehouse for anyone entering with a boat," Soparlo said, noting additional information can be found on www.tc.gc.ca. "Tons of detail can be found there."
Key information found in the brochures and on the website include how to obtain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card and various safety requirements for navigation lights, signals and flotation devices.
She noted local conservation officers enforce these regulations. The park is only able to provide the public with information and safety regulations.
"The rules are generally respected by everyone," Soparlo said, but noted one factor, in particular, is often the cause for problems on the water.
"The big one is booze. That's a huge one," she said. "We just want to remind people to boat safely, and to make sure there's a spotter."
She added spotters are important for anyone participating in water-based activities, like wakeboarding and tubing.
"Our lakes do get super busy, so you have to be careful," she said.
Soparlo said people should also be mindful of their dog's comfort levels with water.
"Some are absolutely petrified of water, so making sure your pet is OK with water is a key thing," she said.
Pet flotation devices are available in most super centres, Soparlo said, and pets who are unable to swim should be outfitted with one.
