On Canada Day both Lifeboats conducted safety patrols throughout the day.
Fraser L/B started at 09:00 and immediately became aware of a large amount of debris in the water from the Freshet. The crew discovered a vessel aground off Kirkland Island, and the details were called into Coast Guard Radio and Rescue Centre was advised. Two pax were on board and another in a small RHIB. The tide was too low to help and advised we would check again later. The patrol continued to Shelter Island at which time Coast Guard Radio asked if we could go back and check on their status. The Fraser L/B arrived back on the scene and assessed the situation, a tow was offered; however, the persons now declined and said they would wait for the higher tide and float off.
Delta Lifeboat relieved the Fraser Lifeboat at 1300 to conduct a safety patrol on the Fraser River, between the tunnel and Sandheads. The weather was poor with light rain and a 10 knot SE wind. This obviously greatly reduced the number of recreational boaters that would normally be out.
During her patrol, Fraser had sighted a small vessel aground off Kirkland Island but not requiring assistance.
Later, the Coast Guard requested a status report and following a search of the area Delta L/B was able to advise that the vessel was no longer in the area and had obviously refloated and departed.
Delta L/B proceeded to Sandheads and later returned to Ladner at 1830.