All Aboard… Almost
A Saskatoon woman was arrested after attempting to take control of a river cruise ship in the early hours of June 25.
Just after 5:00 a.m., police were called to the dock following reports of a woman trying to access the ship’s cabin. Upon arrival, officers discovered the vessel had been unmoored and was drifting beside the dock.
They boarded the ship and located the woman on the second deck, where she was attempting to open the wheelhouse door. After a brief struggle, she was taken into custody and escorted off the vessel, passing through multiple locked barriers.
Further investigation revealed the woman was wanted on three outstanding bylaw warrants. She now faces a charge of break and enter with intent to commit theft of a vessel.
While this woman may or may not have been under the influence of alcohol Saskatchewan RCMP remind the public that drinking and boating is punishable under the Criminal Code and can result in losing your driver’s license, hefty fines, and even time in jail.
Alcohol is a significant risk factor in boating incidents and is involved in 60% of fatal boating accidents that happen in Canada each year. Avoid alcohol, cannabis or other intoxicants, as even small amounts can impair judgement, delay response reactions, and impact motor function.
RCMP proactive boat patrols
Saskatchewan RCMP are conducting proactive boat patrols and safety checks on Saskatchewan waterways throughout the summer. RCMP officers on police boats can test for intoxication waterside, just as officers do roadside sobriety testing.
Drinking or having open containers of alcohol on a personal pleasure craft is illegal, unless all the following criteria are met:
- the boat is not in motion.
- the boat is secured i.e. docked, beached or anchored; and
- the boat has a permanent sleeping area, bathroom and kitchen onboard.
If your boat is not equipped with these permanent facilities, then no one is permitted to consume alcohol onboard at any time. This applies to motorized boats as well as non-motorized vessels like canoes and kayaks.
If you see or are passing a police boat with emergency signals engaged, slow down and follow the instructions of RCMP officers or emergency personnel. If you’re being pulled over by a RCMP boat, safely bring your watercraft to a complete stop and turn off the engine. Remain onboard and follow the instructions of officers. Have your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) onboard, along with your license/registration and personal identification.
If you suspect that someone is driving a boat or operating a watercraft while impaired, Report Impaired Drivers (RID) by calling 911.
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