Emergency crews kept a daylong watchful eye at the St. Clair River Float Down Aug. 18, 2018 (BlackburnNews.com photo by Dave Dentinger)Emergency crews kept a daylong watchful eye at the St. Clair River Float Down Aug. 18, 2018 (BlackburnNews.com photo by Dave Dentinger)
Sarnia

Pandemic presents new problems for Port Huron Float Down

Sarnia's deputy police chief says the pandemic raises a new set of concerns for the 43rd annual Port Huron Float Down.

The unsanctioned event on the St. Clair River usually attracts thousands of participants, many in homemade and novelty inflatable rafts.

Owen Lockhart said they're preparing for people to float to the Sarnia side of the river, as was the case in 2016 when strong winds pushed over 1,500 U.S. residents into Canada.

"This year we're concerned with obviously the border being closed and with COVID and we're currently working on the protocol for what's going to take place if U.S. people land on our shores on their floatation devices," said Lockhart. "That's still in the works."

The RCMP said that any Americans who unintentionally land in Canada will be required to wear a mask while being transported back, and will have to complete COVID-19 health screening.

The eight-mile float down the river is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. on Sunday, August 16.

Lockhart said there's some concern that pandemic travel restrictions and months of social distancing will entice even more people to take part this year.

"Actually that was brought up from the American side, Jobbie Nooner, an event on Lake St. Clair, had increased numbers this year without Canadians attending. There is a possibility of a larger group attending this year," he said.

Participants are reminded to wear a life jacket and make sure they have proper ID with them, including a passport.

-With files from Dave Dentinger

https://twitter.com/RCMPONT/status/1291320675253223424

Read More Local Stories