Water Safety | Halton Regional Police Service

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is responsible for patrolling approximately 325 square kilometres of waters at the western end of Lake Ontario. Our priority is to ensure that all those who spend time on or near the water do so safely. Please review the following recommendations and do your part in helping keep our community safe.

Swimmers

Please review all postings in relation to beach swimming. These are posted as precautions.
None of the beachfronts in Halton region are monitored by lifeguards; swimming is at your own risk.
There are no "swim-only" areas along the Lake Ontario shoreline. Please do your part to share the water.
Ensure you don't "out-swim" or "out-float" your capabilities
Keep an eye on the wind. It does not take much to push you offshore.

Water Safety Tips: Staying Safe on the Water

1. Use Inflatable Toys, Kayaks, and Paddle Boards Responsibly

Choose the Right Equipment: Ensure your inflatable toys, kayaks, and paddle boards are appropriate for your skill level and the water conditions. Pool toys are not meant to be used on lakes and rivers.
Check Weather Conditions: Avoid going out on the water if strong winds or offshore breezes are expected. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Water Temperature: Be aware that the water temperatures can change quickly and can be very different than the air temperature.
Be Safe, Be Seen: Avoid going out on the water when there is reduced visibility. Do not set out onto the water until half an hour after sunrise and be sure to return at least half an hour before sunset.

2. Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Wear It at All Times: Life jackets or PFDs are essential for your safety. They should be worn by everyone, regardless of their swimming ability.
Fit and Maintenance: Ensure your PFD fits properly and is in good condition. It should be snug but comfortable and free from any damage.

3. Assess Your Swimming Skills

Know Your Limits: Be honest about your swimming ability. If you are not a strong swimmer, avoid going too far from shore or venturing into deeper waters.
Take a Swimming Course: Consider enrolling in swimming and water safety courses to improve your skills and confidence in the water.

4. Follow General Water Safety Tips

Stay Close to Shore: Remain a reasonable distance from the shore. If you are using inflatables or paddle boards, stay close to areas where you can easily return.
Supervision: Always keep an eye on your companions, especially children. Never leave anyone unattended on the water. Try to always have a partner with you.
Stay Hydrated and Sun Safe: Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen to protect against dehydration and sunburn.
Know How to Signal for Help: Familiarize yourself with signalling methods and know how to call for help in an emergency. Carry a whistle or other signalling device.
Stay Sober: Avoid consuming alcohol or drugs as they will impair your judgment and will increase risk-taking behaviour.

5. Be Prepared

Carry Safety Gear: Bring a water-proof bag with essential safety gear, including a whistle, flashlight, and cell phone in a water-proof case.
Plan Your Trip: Inform someone about your plans and expected return time. This will help rescue teams locate you more easily in case of an emergency.

Additional Languages

The above tips are have been translated into the languages below:

For more information, visit the Lifesaving Society’s website or contact your local police marine unit. Stay safe and enjoy your time on the water.

Halton Marine Unit
905-825-4747 Ext: 5230

Lifesaving Society
https://www.lifesavingsociety.com

Boaters

Before hitting the water, there are important safety items all vessels must have:

a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or Lifejacket for each person onboard,
a sound signalling device,
a 15 meter buoyant heaving line, and
a watertight flashlight (at night or if reduced visibility).

Before operating a vessel, remember:

Do not operate a watercraft if you are impaired by drugs or alcohol.
When operating near the shore, you must :

yield the right of way to swimmers and sail-powered vessels,
use caution when entering any swimming areas, and
operate at a speed 10km/h or less within 30 meters of the shore.

Do not over-drive your vessel.

Further equipment regulations are provided by Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety website.

Possible Offences for Vessels

Criminal Code:

Impaired Operation, Dangerous Operation

Small Vessel Regulation:

Unsafe Operation, Careless Operation
Operating over 10 km/h within 30 m of shore
Operating a vessel under age
Failing to have proof of competency or pleasure craft license
Operating a vessel with improper safety equipment or not readily accessible

Drowning Prevention

Every year, approximately 500 Canadians die in preventable water-related incidents.

When it comes to children, supervision is essential to preventing injuries and providing a fun but safe environment for them to enjoy the water. When supervising children in or near the water:
- Actively supervise, meaning eyes on the child/children at all times
- Stay within arms' reach. Every second counts.
For adults, factors in water-related fatalities often include alcohol consumption and difficulty navigating changes in water current. Do not consume alcohol before or during swimming or boating activities
When on a vessel, ensure everyone has a well-fitted life jacket on and fastened
Drowning does not look like it does in the movies. Be on the watch for:
- climbing ladder motion
- head tilted back
- body vertical
- facing shore/lip of pool
- mouth at water level
- eyes glassy

Safety Videos

Cold Water Survival

When a person falls into very cold water, their body goes through a fairly predictable sequence in reaction to the submersion. Knowing the natural progression can help you react appropriately, giving you the best chance of survival. Watch this video to learn more:

For additional water safety tips, visit the Lifesaving Society Water Safety web page.

Emergency Situations

No one wants to find themselves in an emergency situation on the water. Knowing what to do in an emergency, however, could save your life. Watch this video to learn more about what to do in an emergency:

General Safety Tips

All individuals who operate a boat have a responsibility to ensure a safe boating experience for themselves and everyone on board. Watch the video to learn valuable safety tips:

Impaired Boating

Impaired boating IS impaired driving. If you are operating a watercraft, stay sober. Suspect that someone is impaired while operating a vessel? This a crime in progress: dial 9-1-1 immediately. Watch the following video to learn more about impaired boating:

Life Jackets

Did you know that wearing a life jacket can prevent 90% of boat-related drownings? Life jackets save lives. "I can swim" is not enough. Watch this video to learn more about life jackets:

Rules of the Water

Understanding the rules of the road is essential for driving a car. There is no difference when it comes to boating. Watch the following video to learn more about the rules of the water: