Residents should not be alarmed if there appears to be a capsized vessel in the Sarnia Harbour on Thursday, August 13, area rescue agencies will be participating in specialized training.
The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit 512 (PointSAR Marine Rescue Unit) will train with the members of the Canadian Coast Guard, focusing on Zodiac rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIB) capsize reversal procedures.
The training is scheduled to take place at the west end of the Sarnia Government Dock between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
The RHIBs are equipped with a self-righting system that will return the vessel to an upright position.
PointSAR said during the exercise, members will get into the water before the self-righting system is activated.
"This is an important safety exercise for PointSAR and provides an opportunity to ensure that our members are familiar and comfortable with the procedures they would need to follow in the event of an actual capsize," said PointSAR Marine Rescue Unit Leader Greg Grimes in a media release. "It is also a valuable opportunity to train alongside Canadian Coast Guard personnel who have experience with these procedures."
Additional Canadian Coast Guard personnel will be in the Sarnia area ahead of the upcoming Port Huron Float Down, scheduled for Sunday, August 16.
PointSAR has also invited Point Edward Fire Rescue, Sarnia Fire Rescue, and the OPP Marine Unit to observe the exercise.
