Dear Editor,
(An open letter to Ridge Meadows RCMP)
I am writing to raise a growing safety concern at Alouette Lake involving jetskiers operating at high speeds in areas clearly designated for paddlers and swimmers.
Despite the presence of buoys marking speed‑restricted zones, many operators continue to ignore these limits, creating an increasingly unsafe environment for families and recreational users.
This is not an abstract worry.
A tragic incident at Cates Park, where two children were killed in a collision with a personal watercraft, serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the risks when high‑speed vessels operate too close to vulnerable users.
While that event did not occur at Alouette Lake, it illustrates the very real consequences of ignoring safety boundaries.
With the number of visitors to Alouette Lake continuing to rise, so too have first-hand observations and reports of unsafe jetski behaviour.
Many paddlers and swimmers have expressed concern about near‑misses and the lack of adherence to posted speed restrictions.
I urge local authorities and park management to consider increased monitoring and enforcement in these shared ‑ use areas, particularly near swimming zones and popular paddling routes.
Visible enforcement and public education could go a long way toward preventing a similar tragedy in our community.
Alouette Lake is a cherished space for residents and visitors alike.
Ensuring that all users — whether on motorized or non‑motorized craft — can enjoy it safely should be a shared priority.
Efren Abella, Burnaby