NRP, the oldest statewide law enforcement agency, responded to 588 calls for service, issued 386 tickets and 1,104 warnings, and talked to more than 23,700 recreational anglers, boaters and park goers.
Saturation patrols statewide checked 2,533 recreational vessels during the 72 hours from May 23-25. Seven boaters were charged with operating under the influence, two more than last year.
The state recorded nine boating accidents; one accident in Calvert County resulted in the death of a New Carrollton angler. A swimming accident in Garrett County led to the death of a teenager from Kitzmiller.
Officers returning from a wreath-laying ceremony at Annapolis City Dock on Memorial Day rescued seven fishermen from their capsized boat just south of the Bay Bridge. All were unharmed.
NRP’s safety efforts kicked off with National Safe Boating Week, from May 16-22, with officers and reserve officers ramping up safety checks and outreach.
During the campaign, NRP inspected 1,205 vessels, talked with 2,171 boaters and attended safe-boating events at marinas across the state and at Camden Yards during an Orioles game, where the agency unveiled its new mascot, Splash the Water Safety Dog.
Officers made four Operating Under the Influence arrests, and wrote 89 tickets and 294 warnings.
Forgot the drain plug again...
ReplyDeleteBoating used to be fun. There were days that we were permitted to catch our own crabs and there were day when we were permitted to enjoy an adult beverage while catching out (free) crabs. We took out kids and taught them how to do it.
ReplyDeleteNow, everybody must purchase a license to protect "commercial" crabber from over crabbing. Now, the law uses GPS and other technologies to track us. Now, they have video technology that can tell whether you are holding a Pepsi or a Bud light. So, what have we accomplished?
Crabs that cost nearly $70/dz that nobody can afford unless you work for the Government.
THAT is progress for sure!