Think about water safety on Canada Day

TORONTO, June 27, 2014 /CNW/ - Ontario Power Generation (OPG) urges everyone to exercise extreme care around Ontario waterways this coming weekend and on Canada Day, particularly on rivers and lakes near hydroelectric stations and dams.

With school out, many families will be enjoying fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking around waterways throughout the province. According to OPG Senior Vice President of Hydro – Thermal Operations, Mike Martelli, "It is important to obey all warning signs, and respect safety booms, fences and No Trespassing signs."

You should always use caution when near hydroelectric stations and dams.  Most hydroelectric facilities are remotely controlled by operators located many kilometres away. Dams can be opened or stations can be started up throughout the day. This causes frequent and rapid changes in the water flow and levels. These changing conditions create strong undertows, turbulence and sudden, powerful gushes of water moving downstream in what was once calm-looking surface water. 

Visit www.stayclearstaysafe.ca to watch the "The Danger is Real", and access other resources that will help you and your family stay safe this summer. Also on our website are links to our water safety partners - the Ontario Provincial Police and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters' (OFAH) Tackleshare Program.

SOURCE: Ontario Power Generation Inc.

Ontario Power Generation, Media Relations, 416-592-4008 or 1-877-592-4008, Follow us @ontariopowergen