Owners are also being told to secure the outboard motor to the dinghy with a lock and engrave distinctive markings on the dinghy for easy identification. Photo: VINO/File

While the police did not detail the number of thefts, the RVIPF Marine Unit in a release today, December 30, 2023, has shared some critical tips to help prevent such incidents ahead of the upcoming celebrations.

Record serial number -  Police 

Police are urging persons to take proactive measures by recording dinghy serial numbers to aid in case of theft.

They are also being urged to remove the kill cord when the dinghy is not in use and to hoist the dinghy when it is not in use, particularly during nighttime.

Owners are also being told to secure the outboard motor to the dinghy with a lock and engrave distinctive markings on the dinghy for easy identification along with regularly checking on the dinghy to ensure it remains in its place and installing a tracker on the dinghy, if possible.

Notify RVIPF of theft - Police  

Sergeant Padmore of the Marine Unit emphasizes, “Frequently when a dinghy is reported stolen, we find that these incidents could have been prevented with proper preventative measures and checks. Hence, we are issuing these specific reminders to boaters to reduce such occurrences.”

Further police added that in the event of theft, promptly notify the RVIPF’s Marine Unit at 368-9642 or 311.