Don’t Mix Alcohol or Drugs with Boating - Safe Boating Awareness Week Tip of the Day #2

Don’t Mix Alcohol or Drugs with Boating - Safe Boating Awareness Week Tip of the Day 

During boating season many people are looking forward to blue skies, the open water, and being able to relax with friends and family. Other people are looking forward to opening a 6-pack of beer with their buddies. This leads us to our tip of the day; don’t mix alcohol or drugs and boating.  Just like on the roads boating under the influence of alcohol is an offense under the Criminal Code of Canada. You should practice boat safety at all times by not consuming alcohol and or drugs while boating.

The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved (Canadian Safe Boating Council) and studies have also shown that the effect of alcohol or drugs is intensified by environmental factors such as the sun and the wind. Further, like our officers do on the roads the Marine unit patrols all the water that falls under the Region of Peel to ensure everyone is safe and following the rules while out on their boats.

If you are planning to consume alcohol ensure your boat is anchored and have permanent sleeping, kitchen and toilet facilities on board or have a designated driver who can get you back to the dock safely.

Remember, water safety is a shared responsibility. If you see or know someone who is drinking and operating the boat or putting other people in danger call 9-1-1 immediately and report the situation. You can also call 905-453-311 for any non-emergency situations.

Peel Police wants everyone to have an enjoyable time while out on the boats but ensuring you are safe is the top priority. Be smart and don’t boat under the influence.

For more information about boating safety visit the Government of Canada Office of Boating Safety.