Marine East Division (MEDIV) held its annual Sea Safety Day in Sai Kung on May 18, attracting over 400 guests from water sports associations, community groups and government departments as well as students and members of the public.

Officiating at the opening ceremony of the event were Deputy Commander of Marine Region Fok Lok-sang, Marine Outer Waters District Commander Angus Pullinger, MEDIV Commander Wong Wai-yin and Chairman of Sai Kung District Council Mr Ng Sze-fuk. Mr Wong took the opportunity to outline the enforcement priorities of MEDIV and publicity initiatives to promote sea safety.

One of the highlights of the event was a joint demonstration by MEDIV and the Government Flying Service (GFS). Officers of the Divisional Fast Patrol Craft rescued four persons from a life raft in a simulated incident, and then the GFS conducted a winching demonstration to take an injured victim by helicopter to hospital. The exercise not only demonstrated marine police officers' response capability and their advanced equipment, but also showed close co-operation between the Force and the GFS.

Meanwhile, a number of government departments set up booths to promote the message of sea safety. Guided tours to a police launch were arranged. The participants also watched a demonstration of high-speed interception by MEDIV and the Small Boat Division. The Police Dog Unit staged a drug-detection demonstration while the Police Band performed for the first time on the Sea Safety Day.

The event received overwhelming support from the local community and helped to enhance public awareness of safety at sea.