(CMR) The Cayman Islands Coast Guard reported seeing an increase in the number of water-related incidents on Sunday, 28 August, after officers responded to a total of seven incidents.
There were four instances where vessels were stopped for exceeding 5 knots within 200 Yards of the shoreline. There was one marine conservation-related offense emanating from a vessel found to be fishing within a prohibited zone (Marine Park).
The CICG also reported one drug-related offense, following an attempt by the operator of a personal watercraft/jet ski to flee from officers, which resulted in the jet ski being recovered and a small portion of ganja recovered.
There was also a water-related accident that involved two personal watercraft/jet skis, in which injuries were sustained by one person. The injured person was taken to the Cayman Islands Hospital for treatment of what were said to be non-life threatening injuries.
Preliminary investigations do not suggest that alcohol was a contributing factor but do suggest that one of the operators was riding in a dangerous and unsafe manner. Investigations into the collision are ongoing.
CICG is reminding persons to exercise caution and good judgment when operating jet skis and other vessels on open water and especially when within 200 yards of the shoreline. Persons are also encouraged to always ensure that vessel speed is no more than 5 knots (no wake should be seen behind your vessel) when less than 200 yards from the shoreline.
Persons should never operate any type of vessel when under the influence of alcohol or any other substance which can impair judgment, vision, or response time.
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