Coquitlam RCMP urges preparedness and precaution on the water

May 28, 2026 - Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, British Columbia
From: Coquitlam RCMP

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Coquitlam RCMP is reminding boaters to be well-informed and fully prepared to ensure a safe season on the water.

Coquitlam RCMP serve the communities of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Village of Anmore, Village of Belcarra and  kʷikʷəƛ̓əm First Nation.  The communities have a mix of waterways that provide a range of recreational opportunities. From freshwater lakes and flowing rivers to coastal marine environments, each type of waterway has its own characteristics and conditions. Understanding the nature of the waterway you plan to access is essential for safe and enjoyable recreation.

Coquitlam RCMP is highlighting the five key messages for this year’s Safe Boating Awareness Wee from the Canadian Safe Boating Council:

1. Wear your lifejacket: Over 80% of Canadians who drown while boating were not wearing their lifejacket or not wearing it properly. There are so many choices for lifejackets / personal flotation devices on the market now, it is easy to pick one that suits your ‘boating style’ and is one that you are comfortable wearing all the time you are on the water.
2. Boat sober: Whether it’s prescription drugs, alcohol or cannabis, the use of intoxicants while boating is both irresponsible and illegal. In some provinces, being convicted of impaired operation will also affect your automobile license.
3. Take a boating course: If you are operating a powered recreational vessel, you should have your Pleasure Craft Operator Card or some other proof of competency. But that is just a start, so consider taking some courses to expand your knowledge and proficiency.
4. Be prepared, you and your vessel: Make sure you and your boat are up to your planned on-water activities. That means you are knowledgeable about your upcoming trip, your boat is properly equipped with the required and good to have safety equipment, the weather is suitable for the voyage, you have sufficient fuel and you have filed a trip plan. Plus, this is not all about you: It is important to keep in mind that by staying out of trouble you will not be putting pressure on rescue resources.
5. Be cold water safe: Cold water can severely impact your ability to swim or even just stay afloat. Even the best swimmers will feel the effects of a sudden cold-water immersion. No matter your swimming ability, the best chance of surviving an accidental cold-water immersion is to wear your lifejacket!

To help keep our local waterways safe for all users, the Coquitlam RCMP Boat will be conducting patrols throughout the season. 

“We want everyone to have a fun time on the water, and part of that is ensuring that everyone follows the appropriate safety guidelines,” says Corporal Justin Bauer, Coquitlam RCMP Boat Operator, “We are looking forward to meeting you on the water this boating season.”

For more information about boating safety and to ensure you have the necessary knowledge and equipment, please visit Transport Canada’s Marine Safety page.

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