Monday, May 6, 2024

FROM: Southern Georgian Bay OPP Detachment DATE: May 6, 2024

Now is The Best Time to Check Your Vessels Equipment, Especially Lifejackets

(MIDLAND, On)- Now is the best time to ensure all of your vessels safety equipment is accounted for and functioning properly. Marine officers from the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are now out on patrol and are checking vessels and operators for proper equipment and signs of driver impairment as the 2024 boating season begins.

Detachment marine officers during the May 3-5, 2024 time period checked 21 vessels over their 21 hours of patrol time while on the waterways here in North Simcoe. A 40 year old Toronto resident operator was cited for having open alcohol aboard and four others were cited for a offence under the Canada Shipping Act. Operators should be aware that it is the same on the water as it is on the road and officers can administer a screening device test for alcohol consumption and a fail result may lead to charges under the Criminal Code of Canada.

SPRING TIME - NEED TO KNOW

Please view the following link for an interesting look at why wearing a lifejacket can make the difference and the effects of cold water on your body should you go over board - The Shock Factor or view the attached CBSC Lifejacket poster with QR code.

For interactive boating information with equipment requirements at your fingertips we suggest viewing the following marine safety information site - Better Boater - Become a Better Boater Today or view the attached Interactive CBSC poster with QR code.

If you see a possible impaired operator "Make the Call" and dial 911 and help prevent a marine tragedy. (See submitted graphics)

Educating the public about safe driving practices with our community safety partners is a priority, if you see a possible impaired driver or operator please "Make the Call" and dial 911 and help prevent a crash.

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Media Officer

Provincial Constable David Hobson

///relations.fatigue.appraise

T-705-733-5440 E- david.hobson@opp.ca

Social Media OPP Central Region X / OPP Central Region Facebook / OPP Central Region Instagram

Posted at 05:55 PM