4 Water SeaSOnS Guide for Safety Ontario is blessed with an abundance of picturesque lakes, rivers and Ontario blessed with an abundance picturesque rivers streams. Our is waterways are what makes thisof province one oflakes, the best forand Our waterways are what makes this province one of the best for outdo outdoor enthusiasts of every kind. But water can be as dangerous as it is enthusiasts of every kind. But water beofasthe dangerous as itfollow is beaut beautiful. It s everyone s responsibility to be can aware dangers and someit s basic safety guidelines whenever you re in, of around or on theand water. everyone s responsibility to be aware the dangers follow so basic safety guidelines whenever you re in, around or on the water. Presented by Presented by:
Winter Watch In and around dams: Ice sports are a great way to enjoy the winter, but don t put your life at risk while having fun. Water flows change quickly and the operation of a power station can cause the ice to be dangerously thin. Snowmobiling No ice is 100% safe. A minimum of 6 inches of clear, hard ice is needed to support a snowmobile. Always check with local operators before heading out. Squalls and fog can get you lost, so carry a compass or GPS whenever you head out. When crossing ice, always wear a flotation suit, carry a throw rope, never ride alone, and follow the marked path. Ice Fishing Make sure you have at least 4 inches of ice before you venture out on foot. Currents and disturbances can degrade ice, so avoid ice over flowing water, near creek outlets/inlets, dams, and water intakes. Carry a pair of ice picks, and wear a flotation suit. Both could be lifesavers. Cross-Country Skiing/Snowshoeing Always carry a map, a cell phone or a GPS. Make sure your ice is safe. Probe with your pole first and go around if you re unsure. Know your limitations, and don t push yourself so hard that you can t make it back. Tips for Kids It s a good idea to play-practice rescue scenarios if your kids like going out on the ice. This way your kids will know what to do in case of a break through.
Spring Alert In and around dams: Hydroelectric stations and dams are no place for recreational activities. They operate 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, and their operation affects river flows and ice conditions. Water flows can change quickly, particularly at this time of year, with melting snow and spring runoff. This can result in dangerously thin ice. Canoeing/Kayaking Know your limitations. Choose water that matches your skill level and never paddle near dams. Keep warm. Dress appropriately and consider investing in a neoprene suit, gloves and footwear. Always wear a properly fitted, approved PFD. Stream Fishing Make sure your fishing locations have safe access points and a manageable current. Don t wade too deep. Wear a belt over waders to prevent water from seeping over the top. Bring along a wading staff for stability and probing bottom. Hiking Be prepared! Have a map of your route and leave a copy with someone at home, and always let them know when to expect you back. Keep to marked trails and obey all posted signs; they re there for your safety. Avoid hiking too close to moving water during the spring. Water levels can rise to dangerous levels if a dam is opened or the weather turns. Tips for Kids Everyone should wear a life jacket when in a canoe or kayak, but consider always putting a PFD on younger kids when they re around water.
Summer Sense In and around dams: Dams are opened when demand for electricity changes or when water must be released. It can happen at any time and can catch you unaware. Waters can change from scenic calm to deadly torrents in a matter of seconds. Use caution near hydroelectric dams and stations, and surrounding waterways. Obey all warning signs. They are there for your protection. Boating/Personal Watercraft (PWC) Everyone on board should wear an approved PFD. Be weather wise. Head for shore the minute the weather turns for the worse. Never overload your boat or enter water that your boat can t handle. Fishing Never fish below a dam. Water levels can change faster than you can react. Always anchor in a safe flow. Heavy currents can work against taut anchor lines and pull you under. Swimming Always swim with someone else or make sure someone is watching from shore. Do not swim near dams or in areas of heavy current. Camping Arrive at your campsite during the day so you can check for water or other hazards before you set up camp. Set up camp at least 200 feet from any shoreline. When drawing water for camp, choose a safe location with stable footing. Tips for Kids Help keep your kids safe around water and enroll them in a water-safety course or swimming lessons before the summer begins.
Fall Awareness In and around dams: Signs and fences are there for your protection. Always obey posted signs they re important to your safety. Stay outside of fenced areas and away from dam structures. Hunting Always have a plan, and make sure someone at home knows it. Never overload your boat or ATV when you head to your hunt camp. Making two trips might take longer, but you will get there in one piece. Pay extra care when hunting near water. Slippery shorelines and changing water levels are more dangerous in the autumn cold. Buy a camouflage Personal Floatation Device (PFD) you can wear while hunting. ATVing Obey all laws when riding, including wearing a proper, approved helmet. Pay attention to signage and keep off of private property. When riding near water, consider wearing a PFD just in case. Always travel with a partner, and let someone at home know where you re going. Use extreme caution if ATV trails cross creek beds, don t trust makeshift bridges, and make sure you have a way back if water levels rise. Tips for Kids Safety around water is even more important on cool, fall days. A child s small body is particularly susceptible to hypothermia. A PFD should be worn whenever kids are near cold water, and adult supervision is a must.
Our Passion is Fishing and Hunting. Our VOICE is the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. www.ofah.org www.ontariooutofdoors.com
Recreational activities near hydro stations and dams are dangerous For your own safety obey all warnings at hydroelectric stations, dams and their surrounding shorelines and waterways. These facilities operate year-round, affecting water flows. Water that looks safe can become treacherous in minutes and ice forming near, or even several kilometres away, can become dangerous. Signs, fences, buoys and safety booms are there to warn you, but if you see water levels changing, move a safe distance away immediately. Be advised that people trespassing on OPG property may face charges, with fines of up to $2,000. Visit opg.com to receive your free water safety DVD or brochure.