The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Submitted by Creighton RCMP With the summer season, residents in Creighton are getting ready for different outdoor activities. Snowmobiles are being put away in garages and all-terrain vehicles and boats are coming out. Boats and ATVs can be a lot of fun for families, especially in beautiful Creighton and its neighbouring communities, but drivers must be responsible in order to ensure their own safety and the safety of others. For all-terrain vehicles, only individuals who have a valid driver's license and are 16 years of age are permitted to operate them. This does not apply to someone operating such a vehicle on their private property or the private property of their immediate family. A person between the ages of 12 and 16 can operate an all-terrain vehicle on their private property if they are directly supervised by an adult with a valid driver's license, and they can operate such a vehicle elsewhere if they have had a safety training course and are accompanied by an adult with driving experience. No operator shall drive an ATV on other private property without the permission of the owner. Within the town limits of Creighton, no person shall drive an ATV in excess of 20 km/h unless otherwise posted. For operating boats, it is required that the operator possess a pleasure craft operator card. This federal law requires a license for powered water craft from under 4m in length for those born before April 1, 1983, and a license for those born afterwards for all sized water craft. While on the water it is important to remember that alcohol and water do not mix. Water on the water, beer on the pier. Operate all water craft safely and with due regard for the enjoyment of others. There are many penalties and fines associated with reckless or dangerous operation of water craft and land vehicles. Whenever in doubt about a particular situation it is best to contact law enforcement or other agencies in order to clarify issues. It is also important that when camping or visiting waterfront retreats that a designated driver be assigned in case someone sustains an injury and needs transport to the local hospital. Ensure that you have a plan prior to setting out for an adventure, and inform someone when you are leaving and when you are expected to return. Take emergency phone numbers with you or input them in a cell phone. Creighton RCMP are always happy to assist with inquiries, whether about legislation or about safety plans. The RCMP are located at 499 Creighton Avenue and can be reached at 688-8888. Please be safe and enjoy the summer season responsibly.
