Quesnel Power and Sail Squadron lit the sky recently with flares and fire extinguishers as part of their hands-on demonstration in preparation for this year’s boating season.
Kersley fire chief Vince Berlinguette and fire fighter Guy Berlinguette led the training session, April 17, where boaters were able to either learn how to handle the two emergency devices or refresh their skills.
“It’s important to practice these skills before you are confronted with an emergency,” squadron member Ernie Kuehn said.
“No one wants a fire or an emergency rescue on a boat, but should something happen, you don’t want that to be you first experience with either fire extinguishers or flares.”
He added not just the captain of the vessel needs to know these skills, but the passengers should also be able to perform as well.
Although the public is reminded that emergency flares should never be released unless its a real emergency, the ones used in the demonstration were expired flares released under special conditions with the proper authorities notified.
“It was good to see young people getting the experience with these tasks,” Kuehn said.
The Quesnel Power and Sail Squadron is a volunteer group which promotes boating safety.
They remind the public that anyone operating a power boat, no matter how small, requires a Pleasure Craft Operating Card.
“Have a safe summer boating and remember to wear your life jacket or PFD,” Kuehn added.
For information visit www.cps-ecp.ca or locally contact Garry Miller, 250-992-3279 or Bob Monk 250-992-3101.