ON Sunday, July 7 at approximately 4:15 p.m., two New Westminster Police Department officers were patrolling the Fraser River when they observed a man in a small inflatable dingy being swept down the river by the fast moving current. Officers saw the motor on the boat was not working and the man only had an oar to row against the current.

The officers navigated the NWPD police boat, Shaw-1, as close as possible to the man and secured a tow line. In a matter of minutes, the officers delivered the man to the safety of the Quayside dock.

“We’d like to recognize our officer’s vigilance and proactive approach to keep mariners safe off the riverfront of New Westminster,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver on Tuesday. “We’re here to help and that offer extends past the shoreline.”

The NWPD Marine Unit allows police to continue a high level of service delivery to those who utilize the waterways bordering New Westminster. The New Westminster Police said they would like to remind everyone who spends time in and around the waterways to familiarize themselves with how to stay safe. This includes wearing a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD), using a radio, and boating respectfully.