A few things to keep in mind this Canada Day Weekend
Traditionally, this long weekend is one of the busiest for holiday traffic. Children are out of school and many people take advantage of that to start their summer vacations. The increase in traffic can lead to the increased possibility of becoming involved in a collision if you aren't careful and not completely focused on your driving.
Road Safety Tips
- Be realistic about your travel times and check the road situation before you leave. Check www.drivebc.comfor possible highway closures before heading out and allow extra time for delays that may occur, especially over the long weekend when more vehicles will be on the road. Relax… it’s a long weekend after all.
- Plan a safe ride home or plan to spend the night - don't drink and drive.
- Slow down, keep your distance and buckle up.
- Call 911 if you see an impaired driver and advise police of problem activity before it gets out of control.
- All unlawfully kept liquor will be seized and violators could face fines up to $230. Please be sure to transport your liquor in your trunk or a space designated for storage in your vehicle.
Boat Safety Tips
- Anyone who operates a power-driven craft must have proof of competency.
Proof of competency can be any of the following:
- A Pleasure Craft Operator Card
- Proof of having passed a boating safety course in Canada before April 1, 1999
- A specified marine certificate from the List of Certificates of Competency, Training Certificates and other Equivalencies
- A completed rental-boat safety checklist – good only for the rental period
- Before heading out, make sure you get the latest forecast for your area. Summer thunderstorms can strike quickly and without warning.
- Don't push your limits on, or in, the water - remember life jackets save lives; Once you're in trouble on the water it's too late - put your life jacket on before you hit the water and leave it on.
- Mixing alcohol and boating is illegal. You are responsible for the safety of your guests and for not putting other waterway users in danger.
For more information, visit Transport Canada’s safe boating website.
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