Summer Water Safety Reminder

OPP, CKLPS and City of Kawartha Lakes remind residents about summer water safety

Kawartha Lakes – The City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the City of Kawartha Lakes Police Service (CKLPS) would like to remind all residents and visitors to the City of Kawartha Lakes to practice water safety!

Together, officers from the City of Kawartha Lakes, OPP and CKLPS will be patrolling area waterways this summer. Officers will be checking vessels for safety equipment and enforcing laws. Common violations include no wake zone infractions, alcohol related offences and missing safety equipment – including life jackets.

We encourage everyone to take personal responsibility for ensuring water safety for themselves and their children. It is important for everyone to be aware of proper boating and swimming practices.

Here are a few safety reminders to consider when enjoying the first long weekend of the season:

• Learn to swim! The City of Kawartha Lakes offers a number of swimming programs both in the pool and on the waterfront. For further information visit the City website.
• Supervise your children in and around water. Stay within arms’ reach of children under five.
• Look before you jump. Spinal injuries are catastrophic – often resulting in paralysis. Enter the water feet first.
• Always swim with a buddy. Most drowning victims can swim. Learn lifesaving skills so you can save yourself and help to save a buddy.
• Wear a lifejacket or Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while on a vessel or in the water.
• Alcohol and water do not mix. Don’t drink and swim and do not operate a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend.

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Contact: Provincial Constable Jackie Hildenbrand
Phone: 705-324-6741
E-mail: jacqueline.hildenbrand@opp.ca
www.opp.ca
Twitter: @OPP_CR

Contact: Sgt. David Murtha
Phone: 705-324-5252
E-mail: dmurtha@cklps.ca

Contact: Cheri Davidson
Manager of Communications, Advertising and Marketing City of Kawartha Lakes
Phone: 705-324-9411 ext. 1355