SEATBELTS & LIFEJACKETS & HELMETS (oh my!)

Lifejackets aren’t just for kids.  Seatbelts aren’t just for long trips.  Helmets aren’t just for motorcycles.

Keep these three FACTS in mind next time you’re canoeing, paddle boarding, driving a car or riding a bike or an ATV this summer.

The OPP has just released some alarming numbers that demonstrate just how important these three safety devices are.

Between 2012 and 2021 the OPP investigated 238 boating/paddling deaths.  85% of these victims were not wearing a lifejacket.  A large percentage of them could have been found afloat and alive with an approved lifejacket.

During the same period, 186 people were killed in off-road vehicle incidents.  Almost half of them were not wearing a helmet.

And lastly, over 3,100 people were killed on OPP patrolled roads in the past 10 years.  Over 500 of these victims chose not to wear a seatbelt.

Set an example for those around you by using the proper safety equipment when driving, biking, paddling, or boating this summer.  Someone is counting on you to get home safely.