The RCMP will be patrolling major lakes in the North Okanagan this summer.
Officers will be checking boats to make sure they have the required safety equipment.
“Power boat operators are reminded that they must carry their pleasure craft operators licence on board,” said Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy.
“Operators of powered pleasure craft that do not produce the licence are subject to a fine of $287.”
Basic safety equipment for most vessels consists of:
Approved Lifejacket or PFD for each person
Buoyant heaving line (15 metres)
Bailer or manual bilge pump
One paddle or anchor
One water tight flash light
One sound signalling device.
Most power vessels require one 5BC fire extinguisher.
Common violations that will result in charges are:
Not having sufficient life jackets,
Towing without a spotter,
Operating a personal boat without a pleasure craft operators licence or being under the age of 16 years,
Impaired operation of a vessel,
Not having a lifejacket on apPaddleboard.
