Local first responders are getting ready for the annual Port Huron Float Down Sunday.
The unsanctioned event along the St. Clair River has forced Transport Canada to restrict vessel traffic from the Blue Water Bridge to the upper end of Stag Island.
Cst. John Sottosanti said that will be in effect from noon until 8 p.m.
"We just want to make sure that, because there's thousands of people out there at times, that no one gets hurt," said Sottosanti. "We can't stop them, but we can try and ensure their safety."
He said residents will also notice a large number of emergency responders and support systems on the water and along the shore.
"The American and Canadian Coast Guard, American sheriff, the OPP, our fire department will also be out in the water," said Sottosanti. "Sarnia police will be onshore monitoring the shoreline, along with the Canadian Border Patrol and the RCMP."
The float down begins at 1 p.m. at Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron, ending at Chrysler Beach in Marysville.
Cst. Sottosanti said participants should have proper ID with them, including a passport, wear a life jacket and refrain from drinking alcohol.
The float down made international headlines in 2016, when 1,500 U.S. residents, many without identification, were pushed across the river to Canada on strong winds.
Thousands of people are expected to participate again this year, many of them in novelty inflatable rafts.
The Ferry Dock Hill parking lot will be closed from Saturday at 12 noon until Sunday at 11 p.m. The City of Sarnia says it will be used by emergency services during the float down.