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Unsafe boating declining, despite increase in traffic

Jun 6, 2016 | 4:34 PM

The RCMP’s annual presence on the ocean and lakes on the mid-island has picked up.

Nanaimo RCMP Const. Gary O’Brien says their marine patrols started May long weekend and continue through the summer, with a focus on weekends and special events.

He says one of the main things they’re looking for from boaters is documentation.

“To make sure they’re qualified to operate that boat. And the basic paraphernalia, life jackets, flashlights, throw lines, bail buckets, that type of thing,” said O’Brien.