Don't tow tubers on a Jet Ski without a spotter: Okanagan RCMP

Article content

Police in the Okanagan are warning people using Jet Skis that they can be removed from the water and hit with fines if they don’t operate safely and follow the rules.

This comes after Kelowna RCMP officers directed the driver of a personal watercraft to shore last Thursday and issued a fine of $287.50 under small vessel regulations because they were towing someone in a tube behind them without having a second person on board to act as a spotter.

Article content

In this incident, the person on the tube fell into Okanagan Lake while the driver continued for about 500 metres before realizing it and turning around.

The driver was also warned after failing to produce a valid pleasure craft operator card.

“Personal watercraft, better known as Sea-Doos or Jet Skis, have unique requirements including that you must be at least 16 years old to operate one, said Kelowna-Central Okanagan Cpl. Michael Gauthier in a news release issued Monday.

“You’re really quite limited when it comes to towing someone behind a personal watercraft, as you require enough seating for everyone on the vessel including the individual being towed.

“This means a three-seater already carrying the driver and spotter has one seat left for whoever they’re towing, should they become injured or the tube goes flat for example.”

Gauthier said officers have escorted many Jet Skis back to shore this summer after seeing operators towing multiple people on tubes, often children.

“This particular incident was overtly unsafe and a clear reminder why a spotter is needed at all times,” said Gauthier.

Anyone who needs more information on safety and the rules around operating pleasure craft and personal watercraft can download the safe boating guide issued by Transport Canada.

[email protected]

Recommended from Editorial

Vancouver man who died during Okanagan Granfondo was father, husband and 'remarkable cyclist'

Firefighting crews from Australia and New Zealand on their way to B.C.

Share this article in your social network

Credits