(NORFOLK COUNTY, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Norfolk County Marine Unit responded to an incident at Lake Erie, Ontario after receiving calls of a vessel in distress.
On Saturday, July 18, 2015 at approximately 11:47 a.m., police were contacted by a concerned member of the public reporting that a vessel was in distress and was taking on water.
Investigation revealed that a 60-year-old male of Kitchener, Ontario had sent text messages to a friend indicating that his vessel was taking on water. The friend immediately attended the Norfolk County OPP Detachment and reported the incident.
Members from the Norfolk County OPP Marine Unit immediately contacted the male and determined his location. Officer’s attended area and located the male 9 nautical miles west of the tip of Long Point on the South Beach near Cedar Creek.
The male was brought aboard the OPP vessel along with his canoe and was safely transported to Booths Harbour without incident.
“Boating is a great activity and the OPP are urging everyone to be prepared for a day on the water, it will increase your safety and enjoyment of boating,” comments Sergeant Jim Millson, Norfolk County OPP Detachment Marine Coordinator.
Review your check list BEFORE your leave – Be Prepared! Whether you use a power boat, sail boat, personal watercraft, canoe, kayak or fishing boat, find more information on a variety of boating safety tips by visiting www.SmartBoater.ca.