RCMP issue safety guidelines as boating season launches

If you are planning to be out on the water for the long weekend, police are urging boaters to be safe.

That includes maintaining social distancing and following the advise of health authorities.

“To help please don’t linger on the boat launches and ramps. This will help reduce frustrations and aid in allowing for social distancing,” said Staff Sgt. Scott West of Salmon Arm RCMP.

RCMP have issued the following safety guidelines:

– Please wear your PFD and do the spring check to make sure you have all of your safety equipment.

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– Ensure you have a “Certified” PFT of the right size and type for all of your passengers.

– Check that bailer, buoyant heaving line, sounder and make sure the flashlight works! Also check the fire extinguisher and flairs if you are required to have them on board. Also check the expiration date.

– Get new safety equipment if you need it, please.

– Have your registration aboard and your Pleasure Craft Operator’s card.If you aren’t sure check the Transport Canada Marine Safety site, it is a great resource.

– Please boat sober! It is illegal to operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Criminal charges result from impaired boating so leave the alcohol and drugs alone on the water.

-Check the weather conditions before you set out. If they change while on the water always have a safe place in mind to put in to a calm corner of the lake rather than “taking a chance” to get where you are going. Or simply get off the water and wait it out on a beach. Leave a trip plan with someone. Even if it is a short trip, text, call or E mail someone to let them know where you are going, preferably a relative if at all possible. Then let them know when you are back off the water.

“Our [Shuswap] lake can get rough quickly and you can find yourself in trouble before you know it so err on the side of caution,” said West.