RCMP will increase patrols on and around Cowichan Lake beginning Friday and continuing over the Canada Day weekend while the Laketown Shakedown music festival is underway in Youbou.
The RCMP’s West Coast Marine Services will join Lake Cowichan RCMP and the RCMP Shiprider program — an RCMP maritime-patrol initiative — to enforce rules ranging from the Liquor Act to vessel-operation restrictions.
“This long weekend, and as the summer continues, before you hit the water make certain you have your proof of competency such as your pleasure-craft operator card, a copy of your vessel’s licence showing ownership of your boat, and, most importantly, all of your required safety equipment on board and readily accessible,” police said in a statement.
They also issued a reminder that open liquor on a boat is prohibited.
“Boating and drinking don’t mix, so enjoy your alcoholic beverages on a deck or patio after your day on the water is finished,” police said. “We wish everyone an enjoyable and safe Canada Day Long weekend.”
The B.C. Highway Patrol previously announced stepped-up impaired-driving enforcement during the summer, especially near areas with public events this weekend and the August long weekend,
They said they will be patrolling near festivals like Laketown Shakedown and Sunfest, scheduled for the August long weekend.
