From RCIPS

Shortly after 7:00PM on Thursday, 31 January, the 9-1-1 Communications Centre dispatched officers to a report of persons in distress in the water off West Bay Public Beach. Two persons were on a paddle board drifting out to sea and were having difficulties returning to shore. Officers from the Joint Marine Unit also deployed to assist in M/V Typhoon.

The persons on the paddleboard were able to communicate with officers on shore via mobile phone, and were instructed to turn on the phone’s flashlight in order to make it easier for the JMU officers to locate them. They were subsequently located by the officers and transported safely to shore.

“This incident shows how easily one can get into a dangerous situation while participating in water-related activities, even something like paddle boarding,” said A/Superintendent Brad Ebanks, “That’s why it is always advisable to carry some means of communication with you as this is one of the tools that will help ensure your safety.”