Yellowknife RCMP initiated a search after receiving a report on June 29th that 9 boaters were stranded in the Wool Bay Area of Great Slave Lake.
The boaters’ 22-foot boat had hit a rock disabling the vessel’s engine. They had 3 children on board.
Coast Guard Auxiliary (CGA) were contacted and Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) were notified. An RCMP officer later made contact with the vessel operator who reported that everyone on board was safe and on shore. Coordinates were obtained and the location was reached. The CGA transported the boaters and boat back to Yellowknife safely.
RCMP would like to issue the following boat safety tips:
- Be familiar with the operation of your vessel and ensure it is in proper working condition prior to heading out on the water
- Carry extra fuel
- Have a spare battery or a means to recharge your boat battery and a backup motor
- Have everyone wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device
- Familiarize yourself with the area you will be travelling, learn about local hazards
- Familiarize yourself with marine navigation
- Check the marine forecast before heading out and monitor the weather for changes
- Ensure that you have the appropriate required safety equipment for your vessel: a bailer, paddles, a whistle or horn, and a throw rope
- Carry a satellite phone, marine radio, or other means of communication
- Inform someone of your travel plans, where you are going, and when you plan to return
- Carry emergency supplies and learn survival skills
