Boating season is starting up for 2023, and the Canadian Coast Guard is preparing to keep area waterways safe.
The Coast Guard is opening its nine lifeboat stations on the Great Lakes, including the ones in Amherstburg, Goderich, Meaford, and Tobermory. The stations are typically open from April to December, although shipping season often operates year-round, weather permitting.
With the lifeboat stations open, the Coast Guard still reminds people that the water temperature is still very much colder than the air temperature, despite milder weather moving in.
"Waterways remain very cold at this time of year and take much longer to warm up when compared to the air, so boaters should ensure they take necessary precautions when near or on Ontario’s waterways," said the Coast Guard on its official Government of Canada webpage. "Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide is an excellent source of information in preparation for the recreational boating season."
A crew of four will operate the Amherstburg station, including a commanding officer, an engineer, and two deckhands. At least one of the crew members is a certified rescue specialist. The station will operate a 14.3-metre cape class rescue vessel with a maximum speed of 25 knots. It will also operate a Zodiac rigid hull inflatable boat, which is 7.9-metres long and has a top speed of 40 knots.
The other lifeboat stations opening on the Great Lakes are located in Cobourg, Kingston, Port Dover, Port Weller, and Thunder Bay.
Should an emergency arise on Canadian waters, boaters can contact the Canadian Coast Guard 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at 1-800-267-7270.