The South Simcoe Police Traffic and Marine unit wants everyone to enjoy the first long weekend of the summer season but with a caveat.
Officers of the unit will be out in force, patrolling Lake Simcoe, Kempenfelt Bay and the Holland River in Bradford West Gwillimbury. They will be aboard the Marine 1, Wardrop II and a pair of Seadoos.
Sgt. Bob Eeles says patrols began last weekend and officers will be checking for personal protection equipment, safety equipment, distress gear and navigational equipment on pleasure craft. The police will also be looking for people violating the Liquor License Act, such as impaired boaters or the dangerous operation of a watercraft.
Last weekend, the marine unit laid two charges under the Small Vessels regulations. One charge was for not having proper life jackets or personal floatation devices on board. Eeles reminds boaters Lake Simcoe’s temperature is only 7 degrees C. and hypothermia can quickly set in if you fall into the water.
While there were no fatal boating accidents in 2007 in the South Simcoe Police jurisdiction, there were a number of serious incidents, including 33 search and rescue operations.
For further tips on safe boating and free information guides, visit Transport Canada at www.boatingsafety.gc.ca or call 1-800-O-Canada.
Today's Weather 
A few clouds and 27°C
A few clouds and 27°C
