The warm spring weather has prompted Coquitlam RCMP to remind beach-goers of boating safety regulations on local waters.
"You can expect to see us out… checking for licences, personal flotation devices, open liquor and conducting speed enforcement," said Cpl. Justin Abels, NCO in charge of the Rural Section, in a press release.
"We're asking everyone to abide by these simple principles of safe boating. The safety and well-being of everyone on and around the water strongly depends on it."
Coquitlam RCMP's Rural Section covers the Fraser and Pitt rivers to Pitt Lake, Burrard Inlet to English Bay and down Indian Arm.
Officers will also be patrolling Buntzen Lake and will be issuing fines — and evicting those caught drinking from the park — for liquor infractions.
"A large number of drowning deaths include liquor as a contributing factor, which is why we want to get the message out early that liquor is not permitted inside the park at any time," said Const. Jamie Phillipson, noting police will take a zero-tolerance approach for anyone found in possession of or consuming liquor in parks.
Coquitlam RCMP also provided several tips for anyone planning to enjoy a day on the lake:
• boating while impaired is dangerous and illegal, and may result in Criminal Code charges;
• life jackets are mandatory whether you're on a boat, kayak, canoe or paddle board, and everyone on board must be wearing one;
• boaters must carry a pleasure craft operator card for any electric- or gas-powered craft on the lake; and,
• slow down and look out for others on the water.
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