The RCMP says it rescued eleven people from the waters of Burrard Inlet after their canoe overturned near Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver Sunday.
Officers with the RCMP Tactical Marine Operations Group (TMOG) were conducting patrols in the area when they received a distress call around 3:30 p.m. reporting the overturned boat, police say.
When they arrived, they found all 11 people, including several youths, clinging to a large, overturned canoe.
“Officers immediately began recovering individuals from the water,” Mounties said in a news release.
“Due to the condition of some occupants who were experiencing difficulty remaining afloat, a Tactical Rescue Diver was deployed to assist with the rescue effort.”
All 11 were safely taken aboard police vessels, according to the RCMP.
“TMOG officers conducted initial medical assessments and determined that while the occupants were suffering from exposure to cold water, no major injuries were observed,” it said.
“Following the rescue, Tactical Rescue Divers confirmed that no individuals were trapped beneath the overturned canoe and assisted in towing the vessel to shore.”
Cpl. Brett Urano says this incident highlights how quickly a day on the water can become an emergency.
“We are grateful that everyone was safely recovered and would like to remind boaters that wearing a properly fitted life jacket can significantly increase survival and safety in the event of an unexpected capsize,” he said.
Anyone planning to spend time on the water is encouraged to make sure they have approved life jackets and be prepared for changing conditions.