NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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Members of the Marine Unit attached to the Southern Georgian Bay OPP detachment despite the unpleasant weather continued to patrol and check for impaired boaters and life-jacket compliance during the Aug. 15 to 20, 2023 time period.
The crew of the OPP patrol vessel Thomas P. Coffin and a smaller OPP patrol vessel logged over 15 hours of patrol on the waters of Georgian Bay encompassing the shorelines of Tiny and Georgian Bay townships and the larger islands of Christian, Beckwith and Giants Tomb, the Trent-Severn Waterway up to Lock 44 (Big Chute Railway).
Sixteen vessels were checked for equipment and operators for signs of impairment resulting in 12 operators being educated on how to improve on minor violations of the Canada Shipping Act. Six operators were cited for failing to have sufficient life-jackets aboard their vessel for all passengers.
In all, officers responded to eight calls for service from the public and there were no reported vessel collisions.
A reminder from the officers: As the summer season begins to edge towards September, vessel operators are reminded to operate their vessels under nine km/h within 30 metres of shoreline to limit damage to shoreline property and moored vessels also to prevent a possible collision with other vessels departing or arriving at dockages or marinas. For more information please view the following link.
The popular ‘I Got Caught Wearing My Lifejacket Program’ continues, thanks to the generous support of Maple Leaf Marinas in partnership with Graffiti Art, rewarding youth who are 'caught' by marine officers wearing their life-jackets.
If you have boating equipment or navigation questions, please go to this site for further information.
The following YouTube video from the Canadian Safe Boating Council will demonstrate why having the proper safety equipment could save your life especially in cooler water temperatures.
Remember, if you see a possible impaired operator make the call and dial 911 and help prevent a marine tragedy.
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