Safe Boating Awareness Week kicks off in Richmond: RCMP urges vigilance on the water

Richmond

2024-05-17 08:59 PDT

In conjunction with Safe Boating Awareness Week, running from May 18 – 24, 2024, Richmond RCMP is ramping up efforts to ensure that all boaters are well-informed and fully prepared for a safe season on the water.

Following the success of previous years’ campaigns, which saw significant engagement and positive feedback from the community, Richmond RCMP is reiterating the importance of safety and preparedness before heading out onto the water with a video campaign on social media and public outreach. This initiative is part of a broader push by the RCMP to promote safety and enforce regulations on local waterways.

Boating in our beautiful waterways is a treasured activity for many residents and visitors of Richmond, said Staff Sergeant Major Ross Lundie of Richmond RCMP. We want to make sure that everyone returns home safely, which is why understanding and adhering to safety measures is crucial.

Richmond RCMP highlights the five key messages for this year’s Safe Boating Awareness Week:

1. Wear a life jacket: Always wear a Canadian-approved personal flotation device while on the water.
2. Always boat sober: Whether it’s prescription drugs, alcohol or cannabis, intoxication and boating do not mix. Always boat sober.
3. Be prepared – both you and your vessel: Ensure your boat has all the required safety gear and sufficient fuel. Always check the weather before heading out.
4. Take a boating course: Boaters are required by law to possess a Pleasure Craft Operator Card in order to operate a motorized boat.
5. Be aware of the dangers of cold-water immersion: Cold water can severely impact your ability to swim and stay afloat. No matter your swimming ability, the best chance of surviving an accidental cold-water immersion is to wear your life jacket.

View larger image: two police officers in a boat, wearing life jackets

Richmond RCMP conducts patrols to ensure compliance with boating safety regulations. Boaters can expect to see an increased presence at popular local launches from May to September. During these patrols, officers are available to answer questions and will be checking for personal floatation devices and proof of competency.

We invite all boaters, whether seasoned mariners or first-timers, to brush up on their safety knowledge, added Staff Sergeant Major Lundie. We want to ensure a safe, fun and incident-free boating season.

For more information about boating safety and to ensure you have the necessary knowledge and equipment, please visit Transport Canada’s Marine Safety page.

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Email: richmond_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: richmond.rcmp.ca

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