Better beware on the water

Rob Gibson - May 17, 2019 / 12:22 pm | Story: 256228

Photo: Richard Hollington

The May long weekend is the beginning of National Safe Boating Awareness Week.

Last weekend saw a pleasure boat wind up on a log boom right in front of the Kelowna Yacht Club – and Boating BC hopes to prevent a repeat performance.

While cruising Okanagan Lake and many of the other lakes in the province is one of the best ways to explore, doing it safely is Boating BC's main goal.

And that doesn't matter if you're on a power boat, kayak, sailboat or standup paddle board.

Here are some guidelines to help you stay safe this boating season:

First and foremost, always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.
Ensure your boat or watercraft has all required safety gear.
Never boat while under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.
Check weather conditions and patterns before leaving and during your trip.
Create a float plan before you leave so friends or family know where you’re going.
Take a course – there is one available for every skill level and type of boating.

There can also be plenty of objects floating in the water at this time of year due to spring runoff.

Boaters are also advised to watch for floating logs and other obstacles that may have wound up in the lake.