News release
Coquitlam RCMP water and boating safety advisory
June 26, 2025
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Coquitlam, British Columbia
From: Coquitlam RCMP
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File # Public Advisory
Coquitlam RCMP wants everyone to safely enjoy our waterways this summer.
In the summertime, when the weather is hot and people get outdoors to soak up some sun, it is important that boaters and water users stay prudent to help keep friends, family, and others in the water safe and sound.
"With the excitement of summer also comes responsibilities to follow the rules and be safe,"
said Coquitlam RCMP Rural Section Corporal Neil Roemer. "Let’s enjoy our beautiful bodies of water and have a fun and safe season together."
Recommendations for safe recreation on and in the water include:
- Have zero tolerance for impairment – Never operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is illegal and punishable under the Criminal Code. Consume responsibly!
- Share your plans – Share your itinerary and planned location(s) with someone so that you may be located quickly in case of an emergency. Plan ahead!
- Dress to protect – Dress appropriately for the sun, and wear approved life jackets, personal flotation devices, and helmets if required, when on the water. Wearing a life jacket or PFD is the best defence for surviving a water related accident. Put a hat on! Always carry warm clothes as temperatures can drop on the water, particularly after sundown.
- Prepare your boat – Operators are required to equip boats with the appropriate emergency safety equipment. Bring extra items such as food, fuel, drinking water, warm clothes, and a satellite phone or other satellite based communications system, to help ensure a safe return!
- Supervision – Children should always be supervised while on or around the water.
For even more tips, please visit the BC RCMP webpage – Make it a safe summer on the water
In an emergency, call 9-1-1 and do your best within your means to safely help when you see someone in trouble. In the meantime, sharpen up on your CPR skills!
Let’s all do our part and make the summer of 2025 the best, and safest, days of our lives.