Assaults, public disturbances and dozens of liquor pour-outs.
Those are some of the types of calls Port Moody Police (PMPD) have responded to this past week as the department is set to ramp up patrols at Sasamat Lake in the months ahead.
In 2020, PMPD spokesperson Const. Sam Zacharias says police received more than 100 service calls to the Belcarra Regional Park lake, most of which took place in the summer.
“You can expect Port Moody Police to have a strong presence up here [Sasamat Lake] in the summer months – high visibility patrols both on bikes and on foot,” he explains, noting such incidents could result in fines.
"PMPD is committed to ensuring Sasamat Lake is a safe environment for everyone."
Some incidents also led to ejections from Sasamat Lake as visitors did not comply with Metro Vancouver Park bylaws.
Zacharias adds there were numerous illegally parked vehicles that were eventually ticketed and towed.
The PMPD has provided the following tips to ensure safety for everyone that visits Sasamat Lake:
- Leave the liquor at home
- "Liquor will not be tolerated at the lake which may result in fines pursuant to the Liquor Control and Licensing Act and potential ejection by Metro Vancouver parks staff."
- Arrive early and park in designated lots
- "Parking on Bedwell Bay Road is prohibited and can lead to traffic hazards and pedestrian safety issues. Vehicles parked illegally will be ticketed and towed by City of Port Moody Bylaw Officers."
- Call 911 for any emergencies that need immediate attention from first responders
