Residents and visitors to Prince Edward County are reminded of the importance of water safety this summer.
Whether you are visiting one of the County’s beautiful beaches, swimming at a pool, or out on the water boating, paddle boarding or water skiing, keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Always wear a lifejacket — Even strong swimmers can get into trouble. Don’t have a lifejacket? The Lifejacket Lending program is available at Prince Edward County and Quinte area libraries. Sandbanks Provincial Park and North Beach Provincial Park also have life jackets available for use at no cost as part of the PARKsmart PFD Lending Program.
- Keep a close eye on children and never swim alone — Drowning can happen quickly and silently. There are no lifeguards on most beaches.
- Check the weather before heading out — Wind and waves can change fast.
- Avoid alcohol when involved in water-related recreational activities.
- Respect the signs and flags at beaches and marinas. They’re there to keep you safe!
Stay safe — Avoid costly rescues
Did you know? You could be held financially responsible for any technical rescues out on the water this summer.
Under the municipality’s Fees and Services By-law, any technical rescue — including boat response — may result in costs being charged to the individuals or businesses involved.
These measures are in place to promote public safety and responsible use of our emergency services and natural resources.
This includes:
- Rescues involving personal watercraft such as floaties, paddle boards, and canoes
- Pet rescues of any kind
- Any person, property owner, or business renting out watercraft (floaties, paddle boards, canoes, boats, etc.) that results in a rescue or technical assistance to return renters to shore.
The cost recovery may include:
- Current Ministry of Transportation rate/hour/apparatus
- Personnel costs for responders attending the incident
- Consumables used, such as absorbents or materials for environmental containment
Let’s make water fun and safe for everyone this summer. Leave a trip plan with a trusted person and be weather smart. Visit the Canadian Safe Boating Council on Instagram for more boating safety tips.