Chilliwack RCMP report another near-drowning incident at Cultus Lake

Approximately one hour after emergency responders recovered the body of a 13-year-old girl from Cultus Lake on Monday afternoon, August 10, Corporal Kiener says the Seasonal Policing Team received a report at Half-Moon Bay of a man who had fallen from his paddleboard and was unable to keep himself above water. The individual was not wearing a life jacket and did not have the required safety equipment.

Fraser Valley Today reported on this incident earlier this week and was provided limited information at the time about a man that was able to be brought to shore.

Two people in an inflatable kayak attempted to assist this man on Monday, Aug. 10. However, one of the rescuers also entered the water and began struggling to stay afloat as he was not wearing a life jacket. Fortunately, with the RCMP boat already on the water responding to the earlier incident, officers were able to quickly intervene and assist. All parties involved were brought safely to shore and did not require medical treatment. Strong winds were present at the time and contributed to the dangerous conditions.

“These incidents highlight how quickly situations can escalate on Cultus Lake and reinforce the importance of wearing a life jacket, carrying the required safety equipment, and understanding the risks associated with being on the water,” Cpl. Kiener said.

Cpl. Kiener says the Chilliwack RCMP Seasonal Policing Team continues to respond to calls involving swimmers, paddlers, and other water users in distress, often due to changing environmental conditions or a lack of proper safety equipment.

“Proactive enforcement and education efforts will continue throughout the season to help ensure visitors understand safety requirements, make informed decisions, and enjoy the water safely,” she wrote in a statement.

She says that while Cultus Lake is a popular destination for recreation, it presents several unique hazards.

“Steep underwater drop-offs can quickly place swimmers in water over their heads, cold water temperatures can lead to fatigue and reduced swimming ability, and strong winds can develop rapidly, pushing swimmers and paddlers away from shore. In some areas, heavy silt and reduced underwater visibility can make it difficult to locate objects or individuals beneath the surface,” Cpl. Kiener wrote in her news release.

While conducting routine marine patrols between July 30 and August 10, officers observed a 19-foot jet boat departing Jade Bay with 12 occupants on board, with some passengers sitting on the laps of others. Police conducted a stop within 100 metres of shore.

The investigation revealed the operator did not possess the required boating licence or vessel documentation, and only two life jackets were onboard for the 12 occupants.

Violation tickets were issued for:

Operating a pleasure craft without the required life jackets: $230
Permitting a person to operate a pleasure craft without proof of competency: $288

by Mike Vanden Bosch

Chilliwack RCMP report another near-drowning incident at Cultus Lake

More Local News