First off, thanks for asking! And welcome to Florida waters!! What kind of
problems really depends on were you are, East coast is VERY different from
West as far as perceived problems. OUI is always a concern for me as a tour
operator as well as inexperienced operators. I don't want to jump on the PWC
bashing bandwagon, but lots of these folks have no idea what safe operation
is, not all of them mind you. I have to tell you, a night patrol on occasion
will do a lot to ease many minds. As far as wake violations, I'm all for
enforcement but some E.O.s from many fields have been over zealous and would
likely written a citation for boats at anchor in a strong spring tide if
given the chance.

Welcome! I'm just glad you are here!Conscientious law enforcement on the
water is a good thing for all concerned even those that may be
inconvenienced.

Capt. Matt

"swatcop" wrote in message
...
Looking for a little bit of direction here. I've been recently assigned to
my department's Marine Unit. I've been a cop for 15 years. I lived in NJ
at
the shore around boats most of my life, but never owned one. I rarely even
went out on boats except for fishing or waterskiing. I moved to Florida in
late 2000, and I'm still working as a cop (just in a nicer place). As a
result of some administrative changes in my department, I was assigned to
the Marine Unit. I've completed the necessary training and such, but one
thing is lacking: experience. I'll try to get to the point - I'm open for
comments and opinions. I know what the law says, and I know what my job
is,
but I try to use more common sense than what the law may actually say in
black & white. What do you (as boaters) feel the most important issues are
for the Police to deal with on the water? Would you like to see more
O.U.I.
enforcement? More vessel stops for no wake zone infractions? More safety
inspections? More after dark patrols of inlets, channels, and harbor
areas?
You tell me. I'm asking for your honest opinions here. As a rule I use
more
common sense than anything on the job. I treat people fairly, and as a
result I rarely ever have to appear in court. I would like to do the same
on
the water. Here's your chance to make a difference, because I will take
every opinion into consideration. Thanks for your help.