A few boating safety suggestions from Transport Canada to help make your summer safer.
Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety offers some boating safety suggestions for Canadian boaters this summer. They are of value to boaters in other regions.
Make sure the boat you use is in good working order. Be sure it is properly equipped. Using a Pre-Departure Checklist will ensure this happens.
Lifejackets - Each person onboard needs to be wearing a Canadian approved lifejacket that is in good condition, clean and fits well. Check the function of buckles, zippers and fasteners. An approved lifejacket will bear a tag or label in French and English showing certification by Transport Canada - Department of Fisheries and Oceans or the Canadian Coast Guard. Around 90% of the victims involved in water related fatalities were not wearing a lifejacket. Both swimmers and non-swimmers alike should wear a lifejacket.
Boating Gear - Depending on the size of your vessel, you will need at least this minimum level of equipment onboard:
- Floating Heaving Line - A throw rope is a good choice
- Flares and/or Flashlight - Carry approved signaling devices
- Manual Bilge Pump and/or Bailer
- Navigation Lights
- Paddles and/or Anchor
- Fire Extinguisher(s) - Carry the correct number and sized extinguishers for the size of your boat
- Pea-less Whistle and/or Horn - Good tools for signaling other boats. Consider attaching whistles to your lifejackets
- Life Jackets / PFDs - Have one for each person on board and be sure they fit
Pleasure Craft Operator Card - Proof of Competency Cards are required if you were born after 1 April 1983 or operating a vessel less than 4 meters (13.2 feet) in length. All powerboat operators will need proof of competency by 15 September 2009.
More boating safety information can be found at the Canadian Office of Boating Safety.
