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False 911 calls keep local marine patrols extra busy on weekend

Cell phone pocket dials 'consumed a large amount of patrol time,' officials say
2018-06-21 OPP marine patrol 2
File photo. Nathan Taylor/OrilliaMatters

NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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MIDLAND - Members of the OPP Marine Unit attached to the Southern Georgian Bay detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) provided 48.5 hours of active marine patrol time on the waters of Georgian Bay during Aug. 8-11, 2019.

OPP marine officers checked 42 vessels and operators for proper vessel equipment and sobriety while patrolling the waters of Georgian Bay and responded to nine calls for marine-related service from the public.

Marine officers also responded to eight false 911 calls from cell phones which again consumed a large amount of patrol time by the officers. Vessel operators are reminded to secure their cell phones to help prevent these false 911 calls which needlessly tie up police and emergency response resources. please view False 911 calls for more information.

Officers patrolled the Tiny and Georgian Bay Township shoreline answering complaints in regards to personal watercraft and small self-powered vessels operation.

As a result of theses patrols, one pedal boat operator was charged with having open liquor aboard, two personal watercraft operators were charged for failing to have their Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) with them, another personal watercraft operator was charged for failing to have a spotter while towing a water skier and two stand-up paddle boarders were charged for failing to have approved lifejackets with them.

Patrols of Midland Bay and Penetanguishene Bay were also made with the Tall Ship Weekend events creating extra vessel traffic in both harbours.

OPP marine officers remind all vessel operators that regardless whether your operating a big boat or a little pedal boat, everyone aboard needs to have a lifejacket.

For more information please view the following educational links from the Office of Safe Boating -

https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/debs-obs-menu-1362.htm
https://www.tc.gc.ca/fra/securitemaritime/desn-bsn-menu-1362.htm

For anyone who is unsure of the equipment required for their vessel please view the following link to get the "APP" for their mobile device https://csbc.ca/en/ or https://csbc.ca/fr/  or view the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide.

Police remind vessel operators that an essential part of our enforcement effort is to save lives and reduce injuries on our waterways while promoting and educating the public about safe boating practices. Your Lifejacket only works if YOU'RE WEARING IT!

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