Noting the RCMP is doing boat patrols in the South Cariboo this summer, 100 Mile House RCMP Staff/Sgt. Blake Ward says the onus will be on vessel operators and owners to ensure they comply with the regulations and have safe vessels.
The focus will begin with education, he adds.
“We will be trying to spread the word to all boaters about their need to make sure their vessels have all of their necessary safety equipment, that they have their Pleasure Craft Operators Proficiency cards and that their vessels are properly licensed.”
Ward notes the RCMP has a variety of options depending on the circumstances.
“We can start with verbal or written warnings and increase up to tickets, directing the vessel to return to shore, and court appearances.’
When it comes to alcohol and vessel operation, he explains it is no different than driving a motor vehicle. A vessel operator who has consumed alcohol or drugs may be charged under the Criminal Code if his or her ability to operate a motor vessel is impaired by alcohol or drugs, Ward notes.
“Other Criminal Code offences we may encounter could be dangerous operation of a vessel, failure to keep watch on person towed, towing a person after dark and failing to stop at the scene of an accident.” He notes other marine offences that may be enforced relate to the operation of the vessel and the interaction with other vessels, lights, etc.
Boat checks
100 Mile House RCMP members were out on the water last week.
Patrols were made on Sheridan and Horse lakes and several vessels were checked.
The majority of vessels checked did not have their vessel licence documents on board with them.
All pleasure craft with a motor greater than 10 hp is required to be either licensed or registered in Canada and have the vessel licence clearly marked on both sides of the vessel.
The operator must carry the licence or registration papers on board the vessel as proof of ownership. If found operating a vessel that is not licensed in Canada, operating a vessel not marked as prescribed, or failure to provide forthwith the vessel documents, all of these offences carry fines of $250 plus a victim surcharge.
Anyone wishing to licence their vessel can do so through Shared Services Canada. If a vessel has been purchased in the United States, prior to applying for a Canadian vessel licence, the owner must have properly cleared Canada Customs and paid the applicable duty and taxes.
Anyone looking for more information on vessel licensing can check out the Transport Canada marine website or call the Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-267-6687.
