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Boating BC urges safety first
Boaters hit the water as May Long Weekend marks start of boat season
As boaters across British Columbia prepare for the official start of the 2017 boating season this long weekend, Boating BC is urging boaters to put safety first.
National Safe Boating Awareness Week is May 2 to the 26, coinciding with the launch of the boating season, and Boating BC President Don Prittie says boating is both safe and easy.
“Every year we see more and more people take up boating as a fun, safe and easy activity to explore our province,” said Prittie. “We’re optimistic that the 2017 boating season will be as active as ever. With over 27,000 kilometres of coastline and hundreds of lakes and rivers we have a simple message for British Columbians: Get out on the water but do it safely.”
Prittie says there are easy and affordable safe boating courses available online and around the province and everyone on the water should remember some basic tips:
– Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.
– Never drink and boat.
– Keep emergency kits, navigation equipment and distress equipment onboard at all times.
– Check weather conditions and patterns before leaving and during your trip.
– Create a float plan before you leave so friends or family know where you’re going.
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