Drunk kayakers issued tickets

Police say two men were in no shape to be operating boats on local lakes, little alone walking.

Lake Country RCMP received a report of two men in kayaks that were “grossly intoxicated” on Aug. 5.

According to the complainant, one of the men was passed out in his kayak and was brought to shore. His friend attempted to intervene, and fell off his kayak several times as he tried to get to shore.

A short time later, both men went back out into Wood Lake, and then onto Kalamalka Lake.

The men beached at Pioneer Park in Oyama, where police officers were waiting.

“As they were staggering towards their car carrying their kayaks, officers moved in and arrested them both for being impaired while operating a conveyance, in addition to being intoxicated in a public place,” Cpl. James Grandy said

Officers say the men were staggering and swearing as they tried to bring their kayaks ashore.

Both were taken to Kelowna city cells for their safety, and allowed to sober up there.

Upon their release, they were issued violation tickets for being Intoxicated in a public place.

“This is an example of how to not enjoy the sun and lakes of the Okanagan, Cpl. Ryder Birtwistle of the Lake Country RCMP, said. “Both men were fortunate to not have fallen off their boats in either lake, as they were not wearing life-jackets that were on board.”

RCMP are reminding boaters that drinking alcohol while boating is dangerous, and illegal.