Upper Fraser Valley

2023-06-30 10:59 PDT

File # 2023 Seasonal Policing

 

Every summer the Upper Fraser Valley experiences a major influx of seasonal visitors who come to enjoy the natural beauty and recreation offered by the surrounding lakes and park areas. Together with our many partners, the RCMP will be focusing on making our recreation areas safe and enjoyable family destinations.

The RCMP Enhanced Policing Program provides extra patrols and visibility during the busy summer season. Police will be patrolling forestry service roads, area lakes, and local campgrounds with an emphasis on impaired driving enforcement and rowdy party goers. Visitors of the Cultus Lake area are reminded to obey the No Parking signs as vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense and violators may be subject to fines.

As the summer boating season ramps up, the RCMP are committed to keeping the waters safe by targeting impaired boating. When it comes to drinking and boating, the same rules apply when out on the water as when you are operating a car on the road, said Sergeant Krista Vrolyk. The penalties for impaired boating are the same as drinking and driving. Most fatalities on the water are preventable if smart choices are made before leaving shore.

The UFVRD RCMP reminds all boaters of the following safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season:

  • Ensure everyone onboard wears an approved life-jacket
  • Carry all necessary equipment on board in accordance with the Small Vessel Regulations Act
  • Never drink alcohol or consume drugs before operating a vessel or personal watercraft
  • Always have enough fuel onboard to get you to your destination
  • Be aware of changing weather conditions
Did You Know
There are safety equipment rules for all types of watercrafts, from canoes to kayaks. In addition, anyone who operates a power-driven craft must have proof of competency. For more information, visit Transport Canada’s Office of Safe Boating.

RCMP across the region are encouraging drivers to be responsible, police will be looking for impaired drivers at road checks throughout the summer. Plan ahead for a safe drive home. Use a designated driver, take a taxi or Uber. If you see suspicious behaviour, please call 604-792-4611, or if you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-8010-222-4788 (TIPS).

Filed under: boating, boating safety, camping, Chilliwack, cultus lake, Impaired, lake, lakes, park, Parking, parks, patrol, rcmp, Summer safety, UFVRCMP