Members of the South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Kincardine Fire Department and Bruce County EMS responded to a capsized personal watercraft on August 12th, 2024, off Station Beach in the Municipality of Kincardine.
At 8:41 pm, on August 12, 2024, the South Bruce OPP received a report of a Personal Watercraft (PWC) that had capsized on Lake Huron approximately 400m from shore. Two individuals were reported yelling for help off the Kincardine Coast in the waterway of Lake Huron. Police attended and located the two vessel occupants who were both wearing lifejackets. The individuals made it to shore and were observed by EMS with no injuries. The vessel was brought to shore and secured.
The South Bruce OPP wants to remind everyone that the only life jacket that can save your life is the one you are wearing. Boaters and PWC operators are reminded of the following safety tips:
Life jackets. A proper sized life jacket is required for each person on board.
Check and monitor the Marine Weather Forecast. Conditions can change quickly particularly on larger bodies of water.
Sail plan. Let someone know your planned route and estimated time of return. Time is of the essence in an emergency, it can make the difference between a rescue and a recovery.
Safety Equipment. Required by law, requirements vary by type of vessel and size. Ensure you have the proper equipment on board each time you sail; it won’t help you if it’s left on the dock.
Charts and compass. Be aware of local hazards, water levels, tides and know where you are at all times.
Fuel tank. 1/3 to go, 1/3 to return, 1/3 in reserve.
Boat condition. Check the hull, hoses, lines, clamps, and the battery. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of a break down on the water.
Leave the beer on the pier. Boaters caught drinking and boating in Ontario face similar consequences to drinking and driving on dry land. This includes power boats, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, sail boats and personal watercraft.
For more information on boating safety, check online at http://www.boatingsafety.gc.ca.
The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.
