Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs places everyone at risk and is one of the leading factors in recreational boating deaths in Alberta. To help tackle this issue, Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services (FWES) has launched a pilot program this summer to enhance safety on lakes and rivers by targeting potential impaired boaters in key areas.
Between May 16 and Sept. 1, fish and wildlife officers will enhance their patrols on lakes and rivers in and around Spruce Grove, Wetaskiwin, Ponoka, Camrose and Red Deer with the ability to determine the sobriety of boat operators by using Approved Screening Devices (ASDs) – commonly known as breathalyzers. If there is reasonable suspicion that the boat operator has consumed alcohol, fish and wildlife officers will administer breath tests. If the officer determines the operator is impaired, they will be arrested for further processing and could face criminal charges.
“Alberta families have a right to enjoy our beautiful summers safely. The pilot program we’ve announced today sends a clear message: impaired boating has no place on Alberta’s waterways. Full stop. Operating a boat while impaired is just as dangerous and illegal as driving a car impaired. I want to commend our fish and wildlife officers for taking concrete steps to prevent accidents and keep Albertans safe.”
This initiative supports the ongoing work and responsibilities of FWES to promote safety on Alberta’s waterways through education and enforcement. During routine patrols where fish and wildlife officers monitor for compliance with fishing regulations, they will also check for valid boating licences and compliance with safety equipment requirements, monitor speed and wake zones, and educate Albertans on responsible boating practices.
“Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services is committed to ensuring the safety of Albertans – both on land and on our waterways. This new pilot program provides officers with an essential tool to better detect those suspected of boating while impaired and enhances our ability to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season for everyone.”
Quick facts
- Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and drugs is an offense punishable under the Criminal Code (Canada).
- In Canada, Criminal Code impaired operation laws are the same for operating a boat as they are for a vehicle on a highway.
- Operators are not permitted to have a blood alcohol concentration that is equal to or exceeds 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.
- In Alberta, the Gaming Liquor and Cannabis Act and regulations restrict the consumption and transportation of alcohol or cannabis in vessels.
- Penalties for operating a boat while impaired may include:
- suspension of driver’s licence
- fines
- prohibition from operating a boat
- possible prison terms
- According to the Lifesaving Society and the Drowning Research Centre Canada, 50 per cent of boating-related water fatalities in Alberta involve alcohol consumption.
Related information
- Speed and impaired boating