North Okanagan RCMP is reminding boaters to follow the rules as officers get ready to step up patrols across all major lakes in the area this weekend.
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They will be checking boats to make sure they have the required safety equipment on board including an approved life-jacket or PFD for each person, a buoyant heaving line (15 metres), a bailer or manual bilge pump, one paddle or anchor, one watertight flashlight, one sound signalling device and one 5BC fire extinguisher.
Powerboat operators have to carry their licences on board or risk a $287 fine.
Other common violations that will result in charges include not having sufficient life-jackets, towing without a spotter, operating under age 16, impaired operation and not having a life-jacket on a paddleboard.
