NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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Members of the OPP Marine Patrol attached to the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) conducted 34 hours of patrol on the waters of Georgian Bay within the towns of Midland and Penetanguishene and the Townships of Tiny, Tay and Georgian Bay over the weekend of May 29, - June 2, 2020.
OPP Marine Unit officers aboard their patrol vessels stopped and checked 16 vessels for proper vessel equipment and driver sobriety. A vessel operator was charged for a vessel related infraction and two other operators were warned for minor infractions under the Small Vessel Regulations Act.
Officers also visited four area marina's and made themselves available for marine educational questions from marina patrons and also conducted property checks on seven area cottages during their patrol time.
Young vessel operators and passengers who were observed wearing their Life Jacket continue to be rewarded by officers with the popular "I got caught wearing my life jacket" t-shirt program.
Boaters should also check the following websites and comply with any restrictions before planning to go ashore on your favourite island in Georgian Bay.
Beausoleil First Nations Lands http://www.chimnissing.ca/
Georgian Bay Islands National Park https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/on/georg
Georgian Bay Township https://www.gbtownship.ca/en/index.aspx
Officers crewing the OPP patrol vessel's remind all vessel operators that they are checking for vessel equipment and for liquor offences which they are vigorously enforcing in an effort to reduce injuries and fatalities on our area waterways this summer. For more information on safe vessel operation and equipment please view the following web site - https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/debs-obs-menu-1362.htm and the attached MADD Canada poster
Police remind operators that an essential part of the enforcement job is to save lives and reduce injuries on our waterways. Educating the public about safe vessel operating practices is a priority.
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