REGINA — Saskatchewan RCMP remind the public that drinking and boating is punishable under the Criminal Code and can result in losing your driver’s license, hefty fines and even time in jail.
“Boat operators found to be impaired can face the same penalties as impaired drivers,” advises Corporal Jamie Diemert, Coordinator of Saskatchewan RCMP’s Underwater Recovery Team (URT) adding that “whether you’re sailing on Last Mountain Lake, pontooning on Lake Diefenbaker or paddling the Churchill River, we want all boat operators and passengers to stay safe and sober.”
Alcohol is a significant risk factor in boating incidents and is involved in 60 per cent of fatal boating accidents that happen in Canada each year. Avoid alcohol, cannabis or other intoxicants, as even small amounts can impair judgement, delay response reactions and impact motor function.
RCMP proactive boat patrols
Saskatchewan RCMP are conducting proactive boat patrols and safety checks on Saskatchewan waterways throughout the summer. RCMP officers on police boats can test for intoxication waterside, just as officers do roadside sobriety testing.
Drinking or having open containers of alcohol on a personal pleasure craft is illegal, unless all the following criteria are met:
- the boat is not in motion.
- the boat is secured — docked, beached or anchored; and
- the boat has a permanent sleeping area, bathroom and kitchen onboard.
If your boat is not equipped with these permanent facilities, then no one is permitted to consume alcohol onboard at any time. This applies to motorized boats as well as non-motorized vessels like canoes and kayaks.
If you see or are passing a police boat with emergency signals engaged, slow down and follow the instructions of RCMP officers or emergency personnel. If you’re being pulled over by a RCMP boat, safely bring your watercraft to a complete stop and turn off the engine. Remain onboard and follow the instructions of officers. Have your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) onboard, along with your license/registration and personal identification.
If you suspect that someone is driving a boat or operating a watercraft while impaired, Report Impaired Drivers (RID) by calling 911.
