Canadian Lakes Safety

Dear Canadian Lakes Members, I hope this article finds you all healthy and enjoying the warm weather! With summer here, I wanted to touch on a few important reminders.

Please ensure that your vessel has the proper 2021 Canadian Lakes stickers attached; without them, you will not be able to launch. This will be closely monitored, with absolutely NO exceptions. Please respect the job our ramp guards do every year and have your information in order prior to arrival. Also, outside of the normal hours of operation, please be sure to call ahead to schedule your launch, as the gates will be locked. We cannot guarantee immediate service, as the summer is an extremely busy season for Safety. The ONLY areas approved for launch are those designated by the CLPOC. Launching from a common area or private property (even with proper stickers) is considered a rule violation that will be strictly enforced. In previous years, some members have disregarded this rule and in consequence damaged sensitive wildlife areas along our shores. This season we will also be continuing our partnership with the Michigan DNR and Mecosta County Sheriff’s Department Marine Division to assist in enforcing all legal matters related to both watercraft operation and wildlife management. Note: To clarify after some questions were asked on the topic last season: Guests are NOT permitted to launch and/or use their own non-Canadian-Lakes-registered watercraft on Canadian Lakes waters.

• Monday through Wednesday – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Thursday – CLOSED, NO WAKE DAY • Friday – 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. • Saturday and Sunday – 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

ATV and off-course golf cart operation is only approved on designated roadways within Canadian Lakes, including paved roads and dirt access roads within the common areas. ATV operation is PROHIBITED on the green areas of the parks and commons areas—the only exception being if you are going to park at your common area boat dock or designated slip. These vehicles can cause damage to the terrain that leads to erosion issues and so forth, so we ask that you respect the area around you. Another concern is safe operation while using your ATV or golf cart. We

ROB MICKEY Safety Department Director rmickey@clpoc.org

had numerous reports last year of underage and reckless driving in the campground area; this is unsafe and will not be tolerated. Please be cautious and be courteous of those around you.

Thank you all for your patience during another high season outside of what we were used to in the past. I understand that rules and restrictions can sometimes be frustrating, especially these days; but they are in place for one main reason—your safety and well-being. I continue to ask that you do your part to help make Canadian Lakes a place where we can all enjoy our summer!

ALL dogs MUST be on a leash within Canadian Lakes property. I have had numerous reports from all over the development about roaming dogs and aggressive dogs approaching walkers and joggers. This is completely unacceptable and dangerous for the people involved as well as for the dogs. Not only is this a serious rule violation that can affect your member-in-good-standing status and result in fines here in Canadian Lakes, it is also a misdemeanor in the state of Michigan with penalties that also include fines and possible criminal prosecution. During this summer season, my office will be focusing on this problem and contacting members who have been allowing their dogs to roam or walk off-leash. Please see that you contain your pet on your property and have it on a leash during walks.