Do you know the risks of getting too close to a hydro station or dam?
Ontario Power Generation says you don’t want to find out firsthand over the Canada Day Long Weekend.
Paul Seguin, Senior Vice President of Renewable Generation, says that conditions near their dams and hydro stations “can change within seconds. Water levels can rise, become turbulent, and create a life-threatening situation.”
Basically, Dams can create currents that can kill.
The OPP’s Community Services Coordinator, Sergeant Jason Folz, says “summer fun can turn tragic if you choose to ignore signs and barriers around hydroelectric dams,” adding that trespassing on OPG property could not only result in fines or criminal charges, but you’re also putting your potential rescuers at risk as well should something go wrong.
Whether you are a boater, angler, or just somebody in the area, OPG says the best way to stay safe is to keep a healthy distance between you and the buoys, booms, and barriers marking off the danger area both on the water and on land.
(written by Kasey Egan)