Mayday Call for a Capsized Vessel
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Over the long weekend, Hamilton Police responded to a capsized vessel in Hamilton Harbour.
On Monday, May 20, 2024, shortly before 2:30 pm, the Hamilton Police Marine Unit, while patrolling Hamilton Harbour, received a mayday call reporting a capsized vessel with two individuals in the water.
The Marine Unit responded to the call and arrived on scene within 1-2 minutes. They found a partially submerged catamaran with two individuals being assisted onto a nearby pleasure craft. The Marine Unit helped the two men out of the water.
After an investigation, it was determined that the vessel had taken on water, resulting from a seacocks not being installed. The Marine Unit successfully hooked the vessel and towed it safely to Lasalle Marina, where police assisted in righting and removing the vessel from the water.
The two adult males from the capsized vessel were provided medical treatment on scene, one for a cut finger and the second male for early signs of hypothermia.
Hamilton Police continue to work towards educating the public in an effort to see these incidents decrease.
Police believe that wearing a PFD/lifejacket is the most important factor in preventing deaths while boating.
Preparedness is the key to boating safety and in case of an emergency use VHF channel 16, dial *16 on your cell phone, or 911.
Every person on board must have a properly fitted Canadian approved personal flotation device (PFD) of lifejacket
Boat operators are responsible for having the appropriate safety equipment on board according to their vessel size/type, as described by law
The rules of boating under the influence of alcohol and or drugs are the same as they are on the roadways. The legal limit is under 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood
With inboard engines, run your blowers for four minutes before starting the engine, after fueling, and during periods of long idling.
The following tips can help you stay safe on the water this summer:
Check the weather before leaving and monitor changing conditions
Make sure you and your guests know what to do in case of emergency
Ensure your boat is well maintained and routinely serviced by a qualified marine technician.
Be aware of cold water shock and hypothermia, and how to mitigate those risks
Inspect your safety equipment regularly
Never boat under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs