Water Safety Education Initiative 2019

Members Involved

• Rick Glatt
• Heather Lethbridge
• Gail Dignam
• Michael Godfrey​​
• Greg Nevison​​​
• Jocelyne De Romana

Purpose

The Water Safety Committee was formed in response to a large number of cottagers voicing their concerns about unsafe boating practices on Kahshe Lake. As a result of many discussions, the KBLA completed our committee’s mandate highlighting irresponsible boating practices, unsafe wakes, and the need for necessary speed zones, as well as, a designated wakeboard area and signage. We believe education is the key to mitigating a lot of unwanted behavior, thereby making Kahshe Lake a safer lake to enjoy.

Goal

Define unsafe speed zones and boat/personal watercraft (PWCs) driving practices that give rise to unsafe behavior. Identify the types of situations and locations where boats and PWCs are being driven unsafely. Recommend rules, programs, and practices that would implement the mandate of the committee for the elimination of unsafe driving behavior caused by irresponsible boaters and PWC operators.

Outcome

Surveyed 600 residents (271 respondents) seeking their opinions about boat safety to help focus committee efforts. Presented results to the Board of Directors and the members at the Annual General Meeting outlining water safety concerns and a strategic plan. ‘Boaters Rules’ and ‘Right of Way’ stickers were distributed around the lake through the “Dock Drop” program. Created a partnership with Safe Quiet Lakes. Additional speed limits and no-wake signs were strategically placed around the lake at; the entrance to Bass Lake, Dennes Marina, Rockhaven, Nagaya Beach, and the Near South Dam.

Large signs displaying Boater’s Rules were placed at five separate entry points around the lake. The committee will continue to work on further education initiatives, and spread awareness on the Water Safety Committee page.