Mounties say they’ll be increasing patrols on the water during Laketown Shakedown and Canada Day this long weekend to monitor for impaired boating.
The Lake Cowichan RCMP will be working with the RCMP West Coast Marine Services and RCMP Shiprider division from June 28 to July 1 to make sure everyone has an “enjoyable and safe Canada Day Long weekend” at the lake.
If you are operating a boat you have to follow the same rules as operating a vehicle, meaning you cannot be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Boaters should also make sure they have all necessary safety equipment on board, like life jackets, ropes and flares.
“This long weekend, and as the summer continues, before you hit the water make certain you have your proof of competency, such as your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), a copy of your vessel’s licence showing ownership of your boat, and most importantly all of your required safety equipment on board and readily accessible,” said RCMP in a release Thursday.
The message comes just days after RCMP warned that they were increasing traffic enforcement on the Island this summer, particularly during events.
The BC Highway petrol said it would be conducting impaired driving enforcement “near recreational areas and festivals over the July and August long weekends especially in the Lake Cowichan area.”
Last year, during the SunFest Music Festival and B.C. Day long weekend, Mounties stopped 26 impaired drivers in the Lake Cowichan area.
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Adam Chan
