Skip to content

Police enforce boating regulations on local lakes

Two charges were laid and 14 Notice and Orders (warnings) were written

The Campbell River RCMP along with the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue will once again be conducting summer boating enforcement on area recreational lakes.

Campbell River RCMP conducted the first of what will be regular recreational boating patrols and enforcement at McIvor and Lower Campbell Lake on the weekend.

Boaters were pleased to see a police presence on the water, Staff Sgt. Troy Beauregard said. In total, two charges were laid and 14 Notice and Orders (warnings) were written. The fine amount for these offences is the equivalent of $7,000.

Police are reminding boaters are reminded to adhere to safe boating practices, have all required safety equipment and to not operate a vessel while impaired. Each year British Columbians are killed or injured on our waterways as a result of negligent boating actions. Police will be taking a zero tolerance stance specifically for safety infractions, unsafe operation of vessels and impaired boating.

Common infractions include:

  • No proof of proficiency on board (PCOC or equivalent)

  • Safety equipment violations (no/not enough life jackets, no signalling device, no bailer, no heaving line)

  • No vessel registration

  • Towing without spotter

  • Dangerous operation

  • Impaired Operation

Refer to the Safe Boating Guide or visit the Transport Canada website to ensure that you are properly equipped for your type of vessel before you get on the water.