An operator involved in a boating accident is required to: Stop their boat at the scene. Render assistance to any person who has been injured or who is in danger so long as they can do so without risking their safety or their passenger’s safety. Provide their name, address and boat information in writing to […]

Cold Water Immersion and Hypothermia Capsizing and person overboard emergencies are incredibly dangerous situations. Add cold air and/or cold water temperatures to the equation and the the level of danger increases dramatically. Performing a quick rescue is the MOST important thing to remember if one of your passengers falls into cold water. Why? Because their […]

Your boat’s propeller (also known as the ‘prop’) is a dangerous piece of equipment for swimmers and towed sport participants. Props are underwater objects that spin quickly and force your boat through the water. Contact with a propeller can cause devastating injuries or in some cases, even death. Propeller Safety Equipment If used properly, propeller […]

Hull Leaks and Flooding Striking underwater hazards such as a submerged rock, sunken island, shoal or deadhead may cause serious damage to your craft resulting in a breach of the hull. If the hull of your craft is breached, leaking and flooding will occur. Improper fitting of the craft’s drain plug or a worn or […]

Over 40% of all boating fatalities are the result of people falling overboard. You should be prepared with the right knowledge and equipment to rescue a person overboard: Ensure that your emergency equipment is properly maintained and readily accessible Practice overboard rescue techniques with your passengers and make them aware of their responsibilities Practice manoeuvring your pleasure craft […]

Surviving Cold Water Immersion If you find yourself in cold water, do the following to increase your survival time: Immediate Action Step 1) Assess the situation: Is everyone wearing a PFD or life jacket? Can you get to shore or safety? Are there any boaters who can assist you? Are you able to signal or […]

Breakdown and Mechanical Failure You are required by law to maintain your craft and safety equipment in proper working order. By regularly maintaining and inspecting your vessel, you’ll reduce the risk of an unexpected breakdown or mechanical failure. If your craft has broken down or is inoperable due to mechanical failure: Step 1) Use an […]

Fighting a Boat Fire Boat fires can be caused by a number of factors including engine malfunctions, a fire in the galley or insufficient ventilation of an enclosed engine compartment. If boat fires or explosions occur, you can lessen the severity of the emergency by: Ensuring you have the mandatory fire-fighting equipment onboard Ensure fire-fighting equipment […]

Responding to a Capsizing Emergency Overturning your boat, better known as capsizing, is a serious boating emergency. To be prepared, know how to perform the following if this does in fact happen. Ensure that everyone onboard is wearing a life jacket or PFD. Visually and/or verbally confirm that all passengers are present and accounted for. […]

Boating emergencies are something we never think will happen to us but they can strike at any time and come in various forms and degrees of severity. The key to safe, enjoyable boating is being prepared and having the right knowledge. You may not be able to predict the unexpected–but you can prepare for it. […]