The Ontario Provincial Police are reminding the public not to drink and boat this summer holiday long weekend.
The OPP have teamed up with the Canadian Safe Boating Council to prevent boating while intoxicated as part of a five-year initiative called Operation Dry Water.
Alcohol is involved with about 40 per cent of boating-related fatalities in Canada. The OPP says that the effects of alcohol can be exaggerated on the water, combined with the sun, wind and waves.
No alcohol can be consumed by anyone on board a boat while a boat is underway in Ontario. Alcohol can be consumed on boats with permanent sleeping, cooking or washroom areas, but only while docked or at anchor.
Penalties for drinking and boating are similar to drinking and driving. In Ontario, an impaired operation of a vessel charge results in a suspension of vehicle driving privileges.
“Upon conviction, a judge may prohibit operating a boat for a period of time and the repercussions of a criminal impairment conviction can go far beyond the initial incident,” the OPP said in a statement.
