The Aurora Bassmasters are pleased to announce that a multi-jurisdictional team of emergency services has agreed to support the Bass Pro Shops Lake Simcoe Open on October 25th, 2008. Sibbald Point Provincial Park in Sutton Ontario is the Official Home of the Bass Pro Shops Lake Simcoe Open.

Herb Quan president of the Aurora Bassmasters added that, “On behalf of the entire Aurora Bassmaster chapter I’d like to thank the respective jurisdictions for their commitment to the event and the overriding safety of participating anglers.” Quan went on to state, “The Marine Unit from York Regional Police (in addition to paramedics) will all be on the water to provide an umbrella of safety. Conservation Officers from the Ministry of Natural Resources will also be aboard their boat helping out”

“We’re extremely pleased to have such well-respected professionals on the water in support of the event itself - safety is paramount! Their commitment will no doubt have a positive impact toward helping us achieve our goals . . . we are also pleased to announce that October is Local Heroes Discount Month at Bass Pro Shops in support of Firefighters, EMT’s, Law Enforcement and Conservation Officers alike.” said George Wallace, Canadian Market Manager, Bass Pro Shops.

All required safety gear must be on board each boat prior to blast-off. Competing anglers must also ensure their safety equipment such as bilge pumps and kill switches are in working order. All participating anglers will be required to carry at least one cell phone per boat and to provide their phone number to officials in the case of an emergency. If, in the event of extreme weather, officials may be forced to postpone the event to the next day – or even the following weekend. Finally, anglers are encouraged to wear Mustang Survival Suits to help ensure a safe and comfortable day on the water.”