On Canada’s vast waterways, other recreational boaters are often closer and able to respond more quickly to a vessel in distress than search and rescue personnel. That’s why vessel operators in Canada are legally obligated to respond to distress signals and offer what help they can in the event of an emergency on the water. Read more ›
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas that cuts off the body’s oxygen supply when inhaled. It can be lethal for those exposed to high concentrations or for long periods of time. Carbon monoxide is a common hazard on vessels, so it’s important for boaters to know what to look out for and how Read more ›
Recreational activities account for 86% of boating deaths in Canada. The Canadian Red Cross has analyzed almost two decades-worth of data on boating deaths in the country to determine the most common risk factors and make recommendations to improve boating safety. Failure to wear a PFD The number one contributing factor to recreational boating deaths Read more ›
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), provincial and municipal police forces and other authorized local authorities enforce boating safety regulations in Canada. Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety is responsible for overseeing enforcement activities. The purview of boating law enforcement officers Officers enforcing boating safety regulations are authorized to: Stop, board and inspect a vessel Read more ›
Fire needs heat, fuel and oxygen to ignite. Unfortunately, both fuel and oxygen are plentiful aboard most boats, making fire an ever-present hazard. It’s important to take safety precautions to mitigate the most common causes of fires on board boats and familiarize yourself with the procedure to follow in the event that a fire occurs. Read more ›
Boat ventilation systems reduce moisture and humidity and help fresh air circulate belowdecks, lessening the likelihood of mold buildup and other damage to the vessel. Most importantly, ventilation plays a vital safety role on boats with enclosed inboard engines. What is the purpose of a ventilation system on a boat? The main purpose of a Read more ›
Boating at night comes with particular challenges. It’s much harder to see clearly in the dark, and waterways can’t be equipped with the same lampposts and reflective tape that make roads more visible at night. That’s why there are regulations in place requiring boats to display navigation lights that make them more visible in the Read more ›
A boat leak can rapidly become a very dangerous situation. Even a small hole under the waterline can leak hundreds of litres a minute. When your boat springs a leak, it’s important to act fast to ensure everyone’s safety and try to find and correct the problem before the craft sinks. Being well prepared will Read more ›
It’s important to know whether you’re heading upstream or downstream at all times while on a waterway so that you can correctly interpret boating buoys and avoid collisions. Upstream and downstream meaning Going upstream means moving towards the source of the water. A vessel travelling upstream is heading inland from the sea. Going downstream means Read more ›
VHF marine radio is an incredibly useful communication tool to have on the water. Using VHF radio to call for help can make all the difference in an emergency situation. However, the use of VHF radio in Canada is subject to strict regulations that boaters must follow. Find out everything you need to know about Read more ›
