Rural first responders caution against recreational boating in South Okanagan

Submitted photo

Dale Boyd

Osoyoos Times

Local RCMP and the Osoyoos fire chief are cautioning boaters against taking a cruise on South Okanagan lakes — saying an increase in rescue services could put rural departments at risk.

Osoyoos RCMP Commander Sgt. Jason Bayda and Osoyoos Fire Department Chief Dave McMahon released a joint statement Monday asking the public to limit non-essential travel, by car or by boat.

We know the increase of pleasure boating comes with the increased chances of emergencies on the water, said McMahon. So while it may be permitted, we ask that you consider the risks you are putting our first responders in. Avoid non-essential boating, stay close to home to save lives

If you have COVID-19 and need to be rescued, you could potentially pass the virus on to first responders preventing them from responding to other emergencies, the statement reads.

There is a temporary restriction on all non-essential travel, including tourism and recreation, at the Canada-United States border, including via international waters, said Bayda. This means pleasure boaters are currently not permitted to cross the international border on Osoyoos Lake.