(submitted photo/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Nicole Reis

SOBER BOATING

RCMP reminding public about sober boat, vehicle operation ahead of long weekend

Jul 30, 2020 | 5:05 PM

Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment Conservation Officers will be out on lakes this August long weekend and RCMP officers are reminding the public to drive both vehicles and boats while sober.

Ministry Conservation Officer Les Ellis told meadowlakeNOW this coming long weekend is expected to be warm and boats are considered a public place. Open liquor is not legally permitted for anyone on a boat – whether you’re the operator or a passenger.

“It’s going to be a warm weekend so take precautions and wear sunscreen, your hat and if you’re feeling sick, get out of the water,” he said.

Ministry Conservation Officers conduct regular boat patrols to check anglers and are frequently asked about consuming alcohol while operating the boat or as a passenger.

Operating a boat shares similar consequences as impaired operation of a vehicle. Ellis said alcohol on a boat constitutes as drinking in public and those caught could face a fine of $250. Both the RCMP and Ministry Conservation Officers have the authority to enforce alcohol regulations to ensure everyone’s safety.

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Meadow Lake Provincial Park does not allow overnight mooring of boats therefore the best place to consume alcoholic beverages is in your cabin or at your campsite.

Alcohol is only permitted for passengers on an actual houseboat that has plumbed-in sewage, cooking and sleeping facilities. The houseboat must be moored to a permanent structure, dock or land.

(submitted photo/RCMP)

Jennifer Sully, communications consultant with SGI, said it’s not just alcohol that can impair an individual behind the wheel. Cannabis and other legal and illegal drugs also impact judgment, concentration, and the ability to react, she said.

‘Whenever you’re in charge of a big piece of machinery like a boat, you need to have a clear head, for your own safety and everyone else sharing the water,” she said. “We just want people to keep in mind whether you’re in a boat or in a vehicle to and from the lake, we want you to have a clear head. Driving impaired is never the correct decision.”

If you see someone you suspect is impaired by alcohol and/or drugs, contact your local police agency or 911.

For additional information about boat safety, visit here.

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nicole.reis@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @nicolereis7722