Marine Safety Officer

In order to provide the necessary patrol coverage on the water as well as teach thousands of people boating safety the marine reserve unit was formed. In fact, if it weren’t for these volunteers, the full time law enforcement personnel would have a difficult time assisting in all the various special events that are hosted on the waterways throughout the year.

The Marine Division designated reserve component consists of seventy (70) members who volunteer their time and efforts to ensure the safety of the Lake St. Clair boating community.  Members of the reserve unit attend both the Macomb County Sheriff Office reserve academy and the Marine Division academy to act in the capacity of a Marine Safety Officer. Marine Safety Officers are deputized by the Sheriff to enforce Michigan Marine law. In 2022 the Marine Safety Officers (MSO) unit voluntarily dedicated 6,862 hours to the Marine Division’s primary mission of marine safety.  

The marine safety officers go through an academy to learn basic police procedures and Macomb County Sheriff’s protocols. They then complete a state approved Boaters Safety class. Additionally they are given hands on training in the operation and handling of the many different boats the sheriff’s marine division uses, fire fighting and rescue equipment, navigation training, radio procedures, as well as first aid, CPR and AED training.

The sheriff’s marine patrol is responsible for enforcing Michigan Marine Law, investigating boating accidents, conducting boat livery inspections, performing search and rescue operations, body recoveries, underwater diver assistance, and instructing safe boating classes. This mission would not be possible without the help of the men and women of the Marine Safety Reserve Unit.