The HPS Marine Unit responded to the waters after receiving a call from a boater in distress after their vessel caught on fire approx 1.5 km north of Van Wagner's beach. The three occupants aboard were all wearing their required life jackets and were forced to evacuate for safety reasons. The two adult males and adult females were quickly located by the HPS Marine Unit, floating near their 20-foot bowrider, which had become fully engulfed in flames.

The three occupants were safely recovered and transported back to shore, where Hamilton Paramedic Service, Hamilton Fire Department and Police were waiting to provided any additional assistance. The three boaters were all transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

To provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

Hamilton Police Marine Unit safely assisted five youths from the water during the afternoon thunderstorms on Lake Ontario.

On August 6, 2019, shortly before 11:00 a.m., police were patrolling the waters and noticed two small sailboats under the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge. The rain was heavy and the wind had picked up. The Hamilton Police Marine Unit noticed that the two boats travelling together were unable to maintain control before they capsized, sending the 11 and 12-year-old sailing students into the water.

The youths were all wearing lifejackets and sustained no injuries.

Police brought the youths aboard and towed their boats back to LaSalle Marina in Burlington.

Thunderstorms develop quickly and create dangerous wind and wave conditions which can turn a day’s pleasure of boating into a frightening experience. Safety begins ashore with planning and training.