The keys to the bay have been handed over and Barrie police now have boats in the water for the warmer months.
The Barrie police department’s Marine 1 boat was put in Kempenfelt Bay last Friday and their inflatable vessel is also now operational.
Barrie police communications co-ordinator Peter Leon told BarrieToday it's full steam ahead for the marine unit and they look forward to a safe season on the water.
“We have the responsibility of the bay once again and look forward to a safe and responsible season for everyone who uses it,” said Leon.
The police share Kempenfelt Bay safety responsibilities with Barrie Fire and Emergency Services (BFES), who handle the water during the colder months, as they have a hovercraft-type vehicle for any possible ice rescues.
The Barrie police marine unit shares Lake Simcoe with Ontario Provincial Police as well as the South Simcoe and York Region police services.
“It's a big lake, a big responsibility and things can happen quickly when people are not being cautious and even when it's not their fault," Leon said. "We get some weather in this region that can cause some dangerous moments on the lake and it is good to have all the services available when needed.
“We help them, they help us and, in turn, we are able to help someone who may be in distress," he added.
Anyone watching the lake Wednesday may have seen some activity with a helicopter and a police boat. The Canadian Forces sent part of its 424 Tiger Squadron to assist with training.
Leon says training exercises help keep officers sharp in the event of an emergency.
“It was a nice day to be out and we had the Transport and Rescue Squadron based out of Trenton, so that was interesting for us and anyone who maybe saw,” said Leon.
Police will continue to monitor the bay and are not only trained with water rescues, but their main vessel, Marine 1, can also pull boats to shore when needed.
