Hundreds of students are expected to gather at beaches today for the annual unofficial Beach Day tradition, which marks the approaching end of the school year. The Norfolk County OPP will have an increased presence in beach communities and on the water to help ensure public safety.
Hundreds of students are expected to flock to Lake Erie beaches today as part of the annual unofficial "Beach Day" tradition.
Held on the first Friday of June, the long-standing tradition sees students from across the region leave the classroom behind and gather at popular destinations such as Long Point, Turkey Point and Port Dover to mark the approaching end of the school year.
While the event has become a rite of passage for many students, it is not endorsed by either the Grand Erie District School Board or the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, which continue to encourage students to attend classes as scheduled.
With large crowds expected throughout the day, the Norfolk County OPP says officers will have an increased presence in beach communities, surrounding areas and on Lake Erie. Police say the focus is on public safety and preventing issues that can accompany large gatherings.
Enforcement efforts will target underage drinking, impaired driving and boating, trespassing, property damage, disorderly conduct and other unlawful activities.
The OPP is encouraging students to celebrate responsibly, make safe transportation plans and be respectful of local residents and businesses hosting the influx of visitors.
