(Photo courtesy OPP Marine Unit)
The Quinte West OPP Marine unit will be patrolling the Trent River and Bay of Quinte throughout the weekend of the Quinte International Air Show. The Air Show is being held at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton on Saturday June 25th and Sunday June 26th. It is expected that a number of spectators will come to the area to view the air display from their boats. The Quinte West OPP will be completing routine checks of vessels for safety compliance and alcohol compliance during both days of the Air Show, as well as during the Thunder on the Bay concert and fireworks display on the Saturday night.
Boaters are reminded to ensure that their vessel has all of the proper safety equipment on board. Having the proper safety equipment is required by law, as well as a proper certified life jacket for EVERY person on board.
The OPP also reminds the public that drinking while boating is just as dangerous as drinking and driving and the very same laws apply. If you are caught operating a motorized or non-motorized vessel while impaired, you will also lose your ability to operate your motor vehicle. Drinking alcohol on boats is only allowed when the boat has sleeping, cooking and washroom facilities and is anchored or docked. If you suspect that a person is operating any type of boat while impaired, please call 911 and report them.
During the fireworks display at Centennial Park on Saturday night, boaters are required to stay a minimum of 125 metres away from the shoreline area where they are being set off.
