Garrison Petawawa, Ont. – Ottawa River boaters and beach-goers are reminded to be mindful of the possibilities of encounters with Unexploded Explosive Ordnance (UXO) along the Ottawa River beaches.
In 2007, an area of beaches along the Ottawa River from Black Point to Black Bear Beach along the north (Ontario) bank of the Ottawa River next to Garrison Petawawa was opened for public access. The beaches opened include Antler Point, Wegner Point, Gust Point and Kiska Beach. The affected area comprises 27 hectares of beach and 167 hectares of river bottom.
These beaches were opened following the completion of a multi-year extensive UXO clearance project completed in 2006. While the completion of this project reduced the threat of UXO, limitations of even the most advanced UXO detection technologies, sandy beaches and the constant flow of the river means there can never be absolute certainty that all UXO hazards have been detected and removed.
The public is also reminded not to enter any areas that are indicated as off limits. Buoys, fences, and warning signs have been erected for your protection. For your safety, it is strongly advised that you obey these instructions.
If you find something that looks like it might be an unexploded device:
- Don’t touch it! If disturbed, some UXO can explode, causing death or injury.
- Remember the location, mark it if possible without touching the item and leave the area. Remember where you saw the object. Go back the same way you came.
- Call 9-1-1 or CFB Petawawa Military Police at 613-687-5555 immediately to report what you found.