Both Alberta and Saskatchewan RCMP are cautioning about the dangers of driving a boat while under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
“This month marks the start of summer for many residents as people launch boats for the first time this season, or head out for their first paddle. We’re reminding everyone to stay safe on lakes and rivers by following safe boating guidelines,” says RCMP Underwater Recovery Team (URT) Coordinator, Corporal Jamie Diemert.
May 19-24 is Safe Boating Awareness Week, and the Saskatchewan RCMP are sharing some water safety tips:
- Wear a life jacket. Everyone onboard, at all times
- Stay sober. Avoid alcohol, cannabis, or other intoxicants. Impaired operation of a boat is punishable under the Criminal Code
- Stay off your cell phone – don’t be distracted when operating a boat or supervising water activities
- Have your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (POCC) onboard – it’s required for all motorized boat operators
- Avoid overloading your watercraft – limit the number of passengers
- Be prepared with safety equipment and a first aid kit – whether you own, borrow or rent a boat
- Know what to do in an emergency
Alberta Pilot Project
In Alberta, from May 16 and Sept. 1, fish and wildlife officers will enhance their patrols on lakes and rivers in and around Spruce Grove, Wetaskiwin, Ponoka, Camrose and Red Deer by using Approved Screening Devices (ASDs), or breathalyzers to determine sobriety.
RCMP remind boat operators to:
- Watch your speed and manner of operation around others. Speed is a major contributor to incidents on the water – please slow down
- Know the ‘rules of the lake’ or general guidelines for passing, docking, anchoring, etc., especially if you’re driving a motorized boat and be mindful of smaller and non-motorized watercraft nearby
- Be patient at public boat launches, docks and slips. Some people may take longer getting boats on and off the water
- Have appropriate adult-to-child ratios onboard – you don’t want children to be left unattended in an emergency, or, if you end up in the water
- Beware of fatigue from sun, wind and waves that can impair motor skills and judgement
If you experience or witness a boating emergency, call 911 immediately. For non-emergencies, call 310-RCMP.
