Last year, Port Moody Police Department (PMPD) responded to over 100 calls for service at Sasamat Lake, the majority of which occurred in the summer months. Summer has now arrived and PMPD members have already attended the lake several times in the past week for disturbances and assaults. PMPD members have also conducted dozens of liquor pour outs and ejected multiple visitors who are not in compliance with Metro Vancouver Parks bylaws. Numerous illegally parked vehicles have also been ticketed and towed. The PMPD is reminding visitors of the following safety messages:
1. Leave 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.
2. Please arrive early and park in designated parking 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.
3. Finally, please call 9-1-1 for any matters that immediately require police, fire or ambulance attendance.
“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” advises Constable Sam Zacharias. PMPD is committed to ensuring Sasamat Lake is a safe environment for everyone and we look forward to seeing park visitors in the coming months.
Constable Sam Zacharias, #122
Community & Media Relations Officer
Port Moody Police Department
sam.zacharias@portmoodypolice.com