Coos Bay, Ore. – A joint two-day safety operation in Coos Bay forced eight vessels back to port after marine deputies and the U.S. Coast Guard deemed them unsafe.
According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the Marine Division inspected 44 recreational and commercial vessels during the September 4–5 operation. Deputies reported three citations and nine additional warnings issued for safety concerns ranging from missing equipment to other violations.
Officials said the priority was ensuring waterway safety for both locals and visitors as late-summer boating traffic continues. The sheriff’s office emphasized that unsafe boats were escorted back to port to prevent potential accidents on the bay.
The Coast Guard and Sheriff’s Office encouraged boaters to double-check required safety gear such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigation lights before leaving shore. Authorities said cooperation between local agencies and the community is key to reducing risks on the water.
Deputies noted that more safety checks may be conducted through the fall as the boating season winds down.
