The port of Vermilion is one of the largest pleasure boating ports on Lake Erie and
welcomes many visitors during the summer months. The Vermilion Police Department,
in cooperation with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Watercraft
operates a Marine Patrol program from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The patrol
boat operates most on weekends and is available for emergency calls 24/7. The Marine
Patrol's purpose is to ensure the safety of all people who are enjoying the waters of lake
Erie and the Vermilion River. This is done through educational contacts, safety inspections,
performing search and rescue and when necessary, by enforcement of State Law and City
Ordinances. The Marine Patrol program also works closely with the U.S. Coast Guard
as well as State and County agencies to ensure Homeland Security.
Officers involved in the marine Patrol Program have all received specialized training
through the ODNR Division of Watercraft in addition to training required of a police
officer are trained in CPR and an AED (automated electronic defibrillator) is carried
onboard. Currently there are ten officers on the Vermilion Police Department trained as
Marine Patrol officers and the department employs four civilian boat operators. Lieutenant
Rich Labis is assigned as the Marine patrol Supervisor.
The Marine Patrol boat is a 1991 Boston Whaler Challenger and is equipped with twin
225 hp Mercury outboard engines. The boat and motors are property of the State of Ohio
and assigned to the Vermilion Police Department on an equipment loan agreement as part
of a Marine Patrol grant. The Marine Patrol grant also provides matching funds for the
operation and maintenance of the boat as well as the salaries of the officers.
For boater safety tips follow this link www.dnr.state.us/watercraft