Whenever you’re heading out on the water is it good practice to go over safe boating tips with all passengers BOATsmart!® Canada wants everyone to remember the following boater safety tips:
Top 10: Boating Safety Tips:
Wear A Properly Fitted Lifejacket or PFD – There are several different styles of PFD’s and Life Jackets
Don’t Drink And Boat – Alcohol and boating don’t mix! We want to remind you to “Leave the beer on the pier, and the water on the water.”
Have A Co-Captain – Make sure there is someone else on board who is familiar with the boat and has their Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly known as a boating license or boat card, who can safely operate the boat if needed.
Check The Weather Network Marine Forecast – Understanding weather and water conditions is important to safe boating. Know what is in the forecast so you’re not stuck in poor boating conditions.
Check Your Required Safety Equipment – Make sure you have the required boating safety equipment for your boat, that it is in good working order, and that your flashlight has working batteries!
Fill Out A Trip Plan – Let a responsible person know where you will be boating, when you are expecting to arrive home, and who else is on board.
Complete A Pre-Departure Checklist – Complete Pre-Departure Checklist you can ensure that you’re well prepared for your boating trip.
Know Your Waterway – Safe boating is more than just knowing how to safely operate your boat and having your required safety equipment – you need to understand local hazards. Refer to marine charts for the waterways where you’ll be operating, locate local hazards and preferred navigation channels.
Review your BOATsmart!® Study Guide – Even though you may already have your Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly known as boater license, it’s a good idea to review the safe boating modules each season.
Get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly known as a boating license, from a Transport Canada accredited provider BOATsmart!® Canada. By learning the required safe boating knowledge to pass the boating license exam, you’ll be confident when boating with your friends and family.
