Sea to Sky RCMP encourages a safe and fun May long weekend

Pemberton, Whistler, Bowen Island, B.C., Squamish, BC Highway Patrol

2025-05-15 14:17 PDT

With the May long weekend approaching, the Sea to Sky RCMP will be increasing its presence and patrols in the backcountry areas to ensure that all individuals using these areas are able to enjoy a safe and fun environment. BC Highway Patrol officers will also be conducting special operations in the Sea to Sky corridor with the goal of stopping aggressive and impaired drivers on Highway 99. Drivers take note: BC Highway Patrol will be everywhere this Victoria Day long weekend

The May long weekend is often the first weekend of the year where people venture into the outdoors to enjoy what can feel like early summer weather. With the increase in activity in backcountry areas there comes increased risk, especially in remote and high-altitude mountain areas, said Corporal Katrina Boehmer, Media Relations Officer for Sea to Sky Whistler RCMP. The Sea to Sky RCMP wants to encourage individuals using the backcountry areas to know the risks associated to their activity, and ensure they are prepared.

Here are a few important safety tips to consider:

• Don’t drive impaired: Whether you’re driving a vehicle, motorbike or ATV or operating a boat, always ensure the operator is sober. Motor Vehicle Act legislation applies on Forest Service Roads and impaired driving on these remote roads puts everyone using these areas at risk, including yourself and your loved ones.  More tips on road safety can be found at Road safety | Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

A larger photo of an RCMP Member wearing a full-face helmet, standing in front of two ATVs with a view of forested area, a lake and mountains in the background

• Follow fire regulations: Always check the local fire restrictions before lighting a fire in the back country. If you are in an area where fires are permitted, never leave a fire unattended, and always have the means to fully extinguish your fire before leaving your site. More information on fire safety regulations can be found at Wildfire Prevention - Province of British Columbia.
• Follow water safety: Always wear a life jacket, remain sober, and be mindful of changing water conditions, especially in mountain and remote areas, where weather can change rapidly and unexpectedly. More tips on water safety can be found at Know the law before drinking alcohol on boats | Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Make it a safe summer on the water | Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

A larger photo of a RCMP Member operating a boat

• Be prepared for anything: Always plan ahead for your trip into the back country, and be prepared to have adequate food, water, clothing and shelter, and know where you are going. Inform yourself on how to respond to animal encounters, and always keep scented items, such as food, secure so as not to attract animals unnecessarily. More tips on hiking safety can be found at Hiking safety | Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Bear safety tips | Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Cougar season | Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The Sea to Sky RCMP is committed to ensuring a safe environment for all backcountry users. Please plan ahead, respect the rules, and help keep our backcountry areas safe and enjoyable for everyone.

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Email: katrina.boehmer@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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