The Maritime Unit attached to the Southern Georgian Bay OPP will be patrolling this Labor Day weekend to check vessels and operators for required equipment and signs of deficiency.
Officers are still surprised to see the number of alcohol-related offenses and the number of operators with insufficient life jackets on board at this end of the navigation season.
During the period of August 18-31, 2021, the Maritime Unit checked 113 ships and operators for signs of weakening and to ensure that the correct safety equipment was on board during their 97 hours of patrol. 40 operators were notified of various minor violations of the Canada Shipping Act (CSA) and officers also responded to 20 calls for water-based service. Six operators provided breath samples for analysis on the screening device (ASD) resulting in three driver’s license suspensions in accordance with Department of Transportation (ADLS) sanctions.
Targeted patrols have been and will continue to be conducted over the weekend along the shoreline of Tiny Township, Giants Tomb, Six Mile Lake, Trent Severn System, Beckwith / Christian / Hope Islands and the Gloucester Pool, as well as educational tours of the area marina. the boating public an opportunity to learn safe boating practices
If you see an impaired operator, “make the call” and dial 911 and help prevent a DST tragedy. (See submitted graphics)
