Seat belt checks
Buckle up, even on short trips. That’s the message Powell River RCMP are sending out as they step up seat belt law checks this month.
“Seat belts help save lives,” said Constable Chris Bakker of the Powell River detachment. “By now everyone should know it is a requirement to wear them.”
Since 1977 British Columbians have been required to buckle up. A recent Insurance Corporation of BC survey showed that an average of 94 per cent of British Columbians in vehicles were buckling up. Although this number is higher than the Canadian average, at 92.5 per cent, the survey also showed in rural areas seat belt usage is lower than in urban areas.
Transport Canada suggests if all vehicle occupants always wore their seat belts, an estimated 300 lives would be saved across Canada every year. This is because the correct use of lap and shoulder belts reduces the risk of death to front seat occupants by 45 per cent and the risk of moderate-to-critical injury by 50 per cent.
“We don’t want to see anyone else needlessly injured or killed as a result of not wearing a seat belt,” said Bakker. “It should be automatic. Before you drive anywhere in your car, you need to buckle up.”
Under the Motor Vehicle Act any vehicle occupant who fails to wear a seat belt is subject to a $167 fine. In addition, if the driver permits a passenger aged nine to 15 to not wear a seat belt drivers can also be subject to a $167 fine for that passenger.
It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure the vehicle has operational seat belts and that there are enough for all passengers inside the vehicle, said Bakker.
Candlelight dinner
Restaurants across BC, including in Powell River, will dim the lights and bring out the candles to promote reducing energy consumption on Thursday, October 25.
BC Hydro is partnering with Tourism Powell River for the fourth annual Candlelight Conservation Dinner.
“With four participating restaurants this year, the evening gives you the opportunity to experience the ambiance of a candlelight dinner, while highlighting energy conservation and some great specials at our participating Tourism Powell River member restaurants,” said Jen Vasseur, visitor services manager with tourism. “The restaurants have some delicious offers.”
Tree Frog Bistro is offering a complimentary cup of daily soup with purchase of a signature entree. Eagles Landing Bistro will provide a special, complimentary dessert with each rib dinner ordered. The Laughing Oyster is offering a free dessert with the purchase of an entree and Costa del Sol is providing a choice of free appetizer with the purchase of two entrees.
Every year during October, Power Smart Month, BC Hydro provides information about how easy it is to make smart energy use choices and save money on monthly electricity bills. BC Hydro provides increased rebates and incentives to help encourage energy conservation throughout the year.
More than 90 restaurants in 10 communities across the province are offering discounts and dimming their lights to raise awareness of energy conservation in October.
