(MIDLAND, On)- Marine officers from the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) aboard the OPP patrol vessel Thomas P. Coffin were busy checking vessels and operators over the weekend and still finding vessel operators that are failing to ensure that all occupants have a lifejacket.
Over the June 13-17, 2025, period officers were on waterways patrol for over 38 hours, checking 35 vessels for required safety equipment finding four incidents where the were insufficient lifejackets for all vessel occupants. The officers further educated 21 operators for minor violations of the Canada Shipping Act and charged three other operators for violations under the same act.
One operator was charged with a liquor related offence and another operator was charged with an illegal fishing offence.
Officers responded to 2 calls for service and there were no reported vessel collisions during this time.
The “I Got Caught Wearing My Lifejacket” water safety program is continuing this year which has been in place on OPP patrolled waterways for many years, enjoying great success by educating young mariners the value in having and wearing your lifejacket while on the water.
Nice to Know Stuff
Aids to Navigation Link – https://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/publications/maritime-security-surete-maritime/aids-aides-navigation/index-eng.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3f7t6PVC1swxotQiaeyD3ikGqWdpaTjIySfWxjERTPdWp_2BXeIbKtijc_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw
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) This summer let’s always remember to put that life jacket on before heading out for an enjoyable day on the bay.
