Water and Boating Safety

The OPS encourages residents and visitors to take simple precautions to help prevent drownings, injuries, and water-related emergencies.

Stay safe around water by following these important safety tips:

• Keep children within arm’s reach near water;
• Never swim alone and choose lifeguarded areas whenever possible;
• Always wear a properly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD);
• Ensure your vessel has the required safety equipment onboard;
• Never operate a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs;
• Be aware of currents, changing weather, and water conditions;
• Obey posted signs, speed limits, and “no wake” zones;
• Avoid swimming near bridges, quarries, or unauthorized areas;
• Carry a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card and required documentation;
• Keep a phone and emergency equipment nearby;
• Learn CPR and know when to call 9-1-1.

If your boat, kayak, or paddleboard capsizes:

• Check for injuries and ensure everyone is accounted for;
• Stay with the vessel whenever possible;
• Keep as much of your body out of the water as possible;
• Huddle together if in a group and signal for help.

Drowning can happen quickly and silently. The Ottawa Police Service encourages residents to make safe choices, wear a lifejacket, and look out for one another while enjoying Ottawa’s waterways this season.

For more water safety information, visit Ottawa Public Health Water Safety and Drowning Prevention.