Safe Boating Awareness Week runs from May 18th to May 24th, and Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue – Station 04 in Squamish is steering boaters toward safety.
The local marine rescue unit not only responds to marine emergencies on Howe Sound, but also provides free access to personal floatation devices for infants, toddlers, and youth through its “Kids Don’t Float Program”.
Personal Floatation Devices are available at two separate loaner stations in Squamish: one at the Squamish Yacht Club, and the other at the Harbour Authority (Government) dock under the gazebo – just steps away from the public boat launch on Loggers Lane. PFDs are available for families to borrow and return back to the loaner station to ensure they are available for other families to use.
The volunteer-run marine rescue station is reminding water sports enthusiasts of the following key safety messages:
- Wear a lifejacket
- Boat sober
- Bring Safety Equipment: Test prior to departure and replace expired items
- Familiarize yourself with the area you visit like commercial traffic zones and remote areas that lack reliable cellular coverage
- Be aware of submerged objects: Rocks, stumps, and log strikes can damage a boat’s hull or motor that can result in injury or death to people on board.
- Leave a sail plan with loved ones and check the weather before departing
- Call for Help: Always have a means of communicating in the event of an emergency. Call for help on channel 16 via a marine VHF radio or call *16, #727 or simply dial 9-1-1 on your cell.
“Being prepared and following these key safety tips can make the difference between a good time on the water and a life or death situation. The ocean can get wild. It’s cold, it can become very windy most days in the summer, and that can put your personal safety at risk if you’re not adequately prepared or being responsible,” says Heidi Specht, rescue crew with RCMSAR Station 04 and President of Howe Sound Marine Rescue Society, the charitable organization responsible for the station’s fundraising efforts.
“Our station’s volunteers are on standby 24/7 to respond to marine emergencies, giving countless hours of their time each year to aid in public safety. Please do your part and stay safe.”
