The Ontario Provincial Police are issuing a strong safety reminder to boaters and paddlers ahead of the busy summer season, following concerning trends in marine fatalities across the province. Between 2016 and 2025, 249 people died in OPP-investigated boating incidents, including more than 100 individuals in human-powered watercraft such as canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Police say the majority of those who died were not wearing a lifejacket or personal flotation device at the time of the incident, with capsizing and falling overboard identified as the most common causes of death.
In total, 205 fatalities — about 83 per cent — involved victims who were either not wearing a lifejacket or were wearing one improperly. Officers say this remains one of the most preventable factors in boating deaths.
The OPP is also warning boaters about other contributing risks, including alcohol or drug impairment, inexperience, poor weather conditions and hazardous waterways. As part of Safe Boating Awareness Week, marine officers will be conducting patrols and promoting compliance with federal boating laws.
Officials are urging all water users to ensure vessels are properly equipped, check weather conditions before heading out, and understand cold-water survival principles such as the 1-10-1 rule. Boaters are also reminded to remain sober on the water and to always wear a properly fitted lifejacket.
