This boating safety course manual has been approved by Transport Canada strictly on the basis that it meets the 
minimum requirements of basic boating safety knowledge set out in Transport Canada’s Boating Safety Course and 
Test Syllabus. (TP14932E). This approval does not represent confirmation of authorship by the course provider. 

All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, or stored in any material form, without 
the express written permission of MyBoatCard.com 

 
 

MyBoatCard.com  

1 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

CHAPTER 1 5 

Introduction ​5 

Proof of Competency ​7 

Visitors to Canada ​8 

Age and Horsepower Restrictions ​9 

Boat Terminology ​10 

Hull Types and Uses ​13 

Engine Types ​14 

Compliance Label ​15 

Pleasure Craft Licence ​17 

Registration ​19 

Hull Serial Number (HIN) ​20 

 

CHAPTER 2 22 

Safety Equipment ​22 

Lifejackets & Personal Floatation Devices ​23 

Lifebuoys ​31 

Buoyant Heaving Lines ​31 

Safety Equipment .. continued ​32 

Anchors ​36 

Distress And Signalling Equipment ​38 

 

CHAPTER 3 48 

Navigation Lights ​48 

Sound Signalling Devices and Appliances ​54 

Navigation Aids ​57 

Required Safety Equipment ​60 

Additional Suggested Items ​66 

   

2 
CHAPTER 4 68 

Checking the Weather ​68 

Local Hazards ​71 

Trip Plan (Sail Plan) ​72 

Regular Inspections and Maintenance ​74 

Unseaworthy Vessel ​75 

Pleasure Craft Courtesy Check Program ​75 

Pre-departure Checklist ​76 

Safety Briefing ​78 

Overloading ​79 

Fuelling Procedures ​80 

Engine Start Up Procedure ​81 

Fuel-Burning Appliances ​82 

Responding To Emergency Situations ​83 

 

CHAPTER 5 103 

Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations ​105 

Rules of the Road ​107 

Boat Manoeuvrability ​113 

Aids to Navigation ​114 

Special Buoys ​117 

Day Beacons ​120 

Cardinal Buoys ​121 

Interfering with Aids to Navigation ​122 

Operating Responsibly ​123 

Enforcement On The Water ​129 

Drugs and Alcohol ​130 

Entering U.S. Waters ​131 

Waste Disposal ​132 

Invasive Species ​137 

3 
4 
CHAPTER 1   

Introduction 
Welcome to M
​ yBoatCard.com​. This boating safety course will provide you with the knowledge required to 
safely enjoy countless hours on the water. 

There's nothing better than getting out on the water for some sightseeing, waterskiing or fishing. Keeping 
everyone safe on the water is every boat operator's responsibility. Most boating accidents can be avoided by 
paying attention and following the safe boating practices outlined in this course.  

 
Wear Your Lifejacket  

Remember to wear your lifejacket! Falling overboard, 

capsizing and swamping while boating are the leading 
causes of drowning when not wearing a lifejacket. Up to 
90%​ of boating-related deaths in the past 10 years had 
one thing in common: the victim was not wearing a 
properly fitted PFD, or lifejacket. This number one cause 
of boating fatalities is easy to prevent. Always wear a 
PFD or lifejacket while on the water. 

Boat Sober 

More than ​40% o

​ f recreational boating deaths are caused by alcohol consumption. Alcohol intensifies the 
effect of fatigue, sun, wind, and boat motion to adversely affect balance, judgment and reaction time. Even one 
drink will affect you, so please leave the booze out of the boat. 

Boat Responsibly 

Be sure to always keep a lookout, drive at a safe speed and never overload your boat. 

 
In the next few chapters you will learn about safety on the water, boating terminology, required safety 
equipment and much more.  

Stay safe and have fun enjoying the awesome Canadian waters from everyone at M
​ yBoatCard.com. 
 

REMEMBER: The single most important thing you can do to prevent drowning while boating is to ensure 
everyone wears a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. 

5 
6 
Proof of Competency   

In Canada, all operators of recreational powered watercraft must carry proof of competency on board at all 
times (excluding the Northwest Territories and Nunavut). This includes all types of motorized boats, no matter 
their size or the horsepower of the engine (this includes small boats with electric motors.) Failing to produce 
proof of competency to an enforcement officer may result in a fine. 

The C
​ ompetency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulation​ ​(COPCRs)​ is in place to ensure that boat operators 
have a minimum level of basic boating safety knowledge in an effort to decrease the number of accidents and 
fatalities. 

Note: ​Proof of competency is not required for pleasure crafts without a motor.  

What are the Accepted Forms of Proof of Competency?  

Proof of competency can be any of the following:  

● A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC);  

● A certificate that states you have successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to 
April 1, 1999;  

● A completed and signed boat rental safety checklist (applicable only for rental period); or 

● A specified marine certificate or equivalency recognized by Transport Canada. 

 
If carrying a Pleasure Craft Operator Card as proof of 
competency, the original card must be carried on board. 
Photocopies or electronic copies of the card will not be accepted 
as proof of competency. 

For more information on the proofs of competency that are 

recognized by Transport Canada, please visit the O
​ ffice of 
Boating Safety​ website: 

https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/marine-safety/office-boating-safety 

   

7 
Visitors to Canada   

All boaters (both residents and visitors) on Canadian waters should be aware of and obey the rules that apply in 
Canada.  

However, if you are a non-resident of Canada and are operating a boat in Canadian waters, the exceptions 
below apply to you.  
 

Operator Competency  

Operating your boat in Canada for less than 45 

consecutive days  

If you are a non-resident visiting Canada with your boat, 

you are not required to carry proof of competency on 
board as long as your boat is in Canada for less than 45 
consecutive days.  

 
Operating your boat in Canada for 45 consecutive days and more or operating a boat licensed or registered in 
Canada  

If you are operating your boat in Canada for 45 consecutive days and more, or operating a boat licensed or 
registered in Canada, you are required to carry a proof of competency, either an operator card or similar proof 
of competency issued by your home state or country.  
 

REMEMBER: As a visitor, remember that you must keep proof of residence on board at all times. 

  

Safety Equipment Requirements  

Boats licensed or registered in a country other than Canada  

Foreign boats (those that are licensed or registered in a country other than Canada) need to comply with the 
equipment requirements of the country in which the boat is usually kept.  
 

Boats licensed or registered in Canada  

If you are a non-resident of Canada operating a boat that is licensed or registered in Canada, the boat must 
meet Canadian safety equipment requirements. However, in either case, you may bring your own lifejacket or 
PFD to use as long as it fits and meets the requirements of your home country.    

8 
Age and Horsepower Restrictions     
 
 
Horsepower restrictions apply to operators under 
16 years of age. 

Youths less than 16 years of age may not operate 

boats with motors over certain horsepower limits 
unless someone 16 years of age or older, and 
certified, is directly supervising them from inside 
the boat. 
 
Note : ​Regardless of age, all pleasure craft 
operators require proof of competency to be 
carried on board. 
 

AGE  HORSEPOWER RESTRICTIONS 

Under 12 years of age with no direct supervision  May operate a boat up to 10 hp (7.5 kW) 

Ages 12 to under 16 with no direct supervision  May operate a boat up to 40 hp (30 kW) 

Under 16 years of age, regardless of supervision  Cannot operate a personal watercraft (e.g. Jet Ski) 

16 years of age or older  May operate any vessel regardless of horsepower 

9 
Boat Terminology   

It is important that all boat operators understand the terminology associated with the safe day-to-day operation 
of a vessel. This can save time in emergency situations and help avoid miscommunications. 

 
BOW ​- the forward (front) part of a boat. 

STERN​ - is the rear or back portion of a boat. 

PORT ​- is the left-hand side of a vessel when looking forward.​ (Hint:​ ​Port​ and L
​ eft ​both have four letters). 

STARBOARD ​- is the right-hand side of a vessel when looking forward. 

DRAFT​ - is the depth of water that a vessel requires to float (and is approximated as the distance between the 
waterline and the lowest point of the hull).  

WATERLINE​ - can be found on the hull of the vessel, and indicates the recommended maximum gross load 
capacity. The waterline must never be submerged. If it is submerged, the boat has exceeded its maximum load 
capacity. 

HULL​ - is the body of a vessel, from the deck down. It does not include rigging, superstructure, or machinery. 

FREEBOARD​ - is the distance between a vessel’s deck and the waterline. 

10 
Boat Terminology​ .. Continued 

11 
Boat Terminology​ ​ .. Continued      
 

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) ​- is a device designed to provide enough buoyancy to keep the wearer’s 
chin out of the water. It is not, however, a lifejacket, which is designed to turn an unconscious person face-up in 
the water. 

LIFEJACKET​ - is a flotation device that, although bulky, provides much more buoyancy than a PFD and is 
designed to turn an unconscious person face-up in the water.   

TO OPERATE​ - means the action of controlling the speed and course of a pleasure craft. 

VESSEL​ - a term that refers to every description of watercraft, including non-displacement craft and seaplanes, 
used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water. 

PLEASURE CRAFT​ - is any type of watercraft that is used exclusively for pleasure and does not carry 
passengers or goods for hire, reward, remuneration, or any object of profit. If remuneration is earned for a 
service provided by a vessel, then that vessel is deemed to be a commercial vessel. 

POWER DRIVEN VESSEL​ - is a watercraft that is propelled by any type of engine or machinery. A sailboat that is 
being propelled by its engine, even if it has its sails up, is deemed a power-driven vessel. 

SAILING VESSEL​ - is any vessel under sail, provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used. 

STAND ON VESSEL​ - is a vessel that has right-of-way, and when meeting, crossing the path of, or overtaking 
another vessel, shall maintain her course and speed. 

GIVE WAY VESSEL​ - is a vessel that shall keep out of the way of another vessel. 

RESTRICTED VISIBILITY​ - refers to any condition in which visibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy 
rainstorms, sandstorms or any other similar cause. 

WAKE​ - is the waves (or track of water) around and behind the vessel that are created by a vessel in motion. 

STRONG WIND WARNING​ - are winds with sustained wind speeds in the range of 20 - 33 knots (36 to 61 km/h) 
as defined by the Meteorological Service of Canada. 

   

12 
Hull Types and Uses 

There are two types of hull designs: planing and displacement. 

● Planing Hull​ ​- is designed to lift and ride on top of the water as it gains speed. Most small power 
boats have a planing hull design. 

● Displacement Hull ​- is designed to travel through the water. Sailing vessels and large cruise ships use 
displacement hulls because their size and power will not allow them to plane. 

 
 

There are four basic hull shapes found on recreational watercraft: 

 
 
 
Flat Bottom​ – Found on fishing boats. They are best in calm, 
shallow waters. 

  

 
Round Bottom ​– Found on canoes. These boats glide slowly 
through the water with little effort. They do roll easily, so use 
caution when entering, exiting, loading or unloading the boat. 

  

 
Deep-V Hull​ – Found on powerboats. These boats move smoothly 
through rough water at high speeds. They generally have a larger 
engine. 

 
Multi-hull –
​ Found on catamarans and pontoon boats. These 
boats are very stable but have a wide turning and steering 
radius. 

13 
Engine Types 
 

Outboard Engine​ ​- The engine is mounted outside the boat on the 

transom; all of the engine is visible. Steering is controlled by either 
a steering wheel or hand tiller, and propulsion comes from water 
being pushed by the propeller. 

Outboard engines are popular with bow riders and aluminium 

boats; they come in many different power ranges and models and 
can be either two or four-stroke. 

Inboard Engine​ ​- The engine and most of the driveshaft are 

mounted inside the vessel towards the center. Only the propeller 
and propeller shaft protrude outside the hull. Propulsion is 
achieved by water being pushed by the propeller, which moves the 
boat forward. When the steering wheel is turned, it moves a rudder 
to control the direction of the boat. 

 
 

Inboard/Outboard Engine​ - The engine unit is installed 

inside the hull while the lower unit (composed of the 
driveshaft and propeller) is outside the hull. Propulsion is 
achieved by water being pushed by the propeller, and 
steering is controlled by a steering wheel. 

Jet Engine​ -​ The engine and pump impeller are mounted 

inside the vessel and no external propeller is needed. 

Propulsion is achieved when water is sucked into the engine 

from an opening under the vessel, the water flows through 
the pump (which is powered by the engine) and forced out 
at very high pressure, moving the boat forward. Steering is 
controlled by a steering wheel or handlebars. 

Jet Engines are found in PWC and jet boats. They are either 
two or four stroke inboard engines. 
 

14 
Compliance Label    

Any pleasure craft (except Pleasure Craft over 24m) that is propelled (or designed to be propelled) by a motor 
and that is built or imported into Canada must have a Compliance Label. The Compliance label must be 
permanently attached to the hull of the vessel, in a conspicuous location plainly visible from the helm. 
 

A compliance label is the manufacturer’s or importer’s confirmation that the vessel is built in accordance with 
the construction requirements of the S
​ mall Vessel Regulations​. 

Types of Compliance Labels 

There are three types of Compliance Labels for Pleasure Craft:  

● Compliance Label for a pleasure craft measuring ​up to 6 m​ in length; 

● Compliance Label for a pleasure craft measuring ​more than 6 m​ long; and 
● Compliance Label for vessels other than pleasure craft measuring more than 6m long. 
 

   

15 
Compliance Label​ ​ .. Continued 
 
For vessels ​up to 6m​ in length, the compliance label states: 

● The​ maximum safe gross load capacity​ to be carried, including but not limited to the total weight of all 
persons, fuel, and any equipment on board; and  

● The ​maximum recommended safe limits for motor power​ for the hull.  

For vessels ​over 6m​ in length, the compliance label contains a statement indicating that the vessel was built to 
the pleasure craft construction requirements.  

Obey your vessel's compliance label. A boat that is overloaded or overpowered sits lower in the water and is 
more at risk of swamping, capsizing, or sinking - especially in poor weather or water conditions. Overloading is 
dangerous; know and respect the load limitations of your vessel. 

REMEMBER: The maximum load and power limits indicated on the compliance label assume that the 
vessel will be operated in fair weather and that the weight of equipment and people carried in the vessel 
is properly distributed to balance the hull. An unstable boat is more difficult to maneuver and has a 
greater risk of swamping or capsizing. 

   

16 
Pleasure Craft Licence    

All pleasure craft powered by an engine or engines of 10 hp (7.5 KW) horsepower or more, including Personal 
Watercraft (PWC), must be licensed. Alternatively to licensing your boat, you can register it with Transport 
Canada. 

A pleasure craft licence is a document that provides your boat with a unique licence number, which is valid for 
10 years. Pleasure craft license paperwork must be kept on board when the boat is being operated. 

 
 
Display your Licence Number 

On your boat, you must display the pleasure craft licence number:  

● On b
​ oth sides o
​ f the bow;  
● Above the waterline;  
● As far forward as practical; and  
● Where it is easy to see.  
 

The characters must be:  

● In block letters;  
● At least 7.5 cm (3”) high; and  
● Of a colour that contrasts with the background ​(see image below)​. 
 

17 
Pleasure Craft Licence - Change of Address / Owner   

Change of name or address 

A Pleasure Craft License is valid for a period of ten (10) years beginning on the day on which it is issued, 
transferred or renewed. Any updates that are needed (i.e. name or address change) does not extend the validity 
period of the licence.  

Any update must be made through the Pleasure Craft Licensing Center online or by mail within 90 days. The 
pleasure craft may be operated without an accurate name and/or date on the license for up to 90 days, as long 
as you carry documents that confirm the change of name or address on board at all times until you receive 
your updated Pleasure Craft License paperwork.  

Transferring Ownership 

When transferring ownership the same rules apply. The new owner must transfer the license into their name 
within 90 days of purchase through the Pleasure Craft Licensing Center online or by mail. During this time they 
must carry proof of purchase documents on board at all times until they receive their updated Pleasure Craft 
License paperwork. 

For more information, please visit the ​Pleasure Craft Licensing Centers​ website: 
https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/marine-safety/contact-us-0 

REMEMBER: Instead of licensing your vessel, you can choose to register it with Transport Canada  

   

18 
Registration   

Vessel registration is different from licensing. Vessel registration is the title of ownership of a boat, which 
includes the official vessel name and the name of the owner(s). Registration of a Pleasure Craft is voluntary.  

When a boat is registered, it is given a unique name and registration number. The name and port of registry of 
the vessel must be displayed on the stern of the vessel.   

Registration benefits include : 

● Proof of ownership (legal title) for your boat;  

● The right to fly the Canadian flag;  
● A unique name and official number for your boat; and  
● The right to use your boat as security for a marine mortgage. 

For more information, please visit the ​Transport Canada's Vessel Registry​ ​website: 
https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/vessel-licensing-registration 

19 
Hull Serial Number (HIN)      

All pleasure craft manufactured in Canada, or imported into Canada, after August 1, 1981 shall be permanently 
marked with a Hull Serial Number (HIN). No person should remove, alter or otherwise tamper with a HIN. The 
12 digit HIN identifies when the vessel was built and by whom, and is often used to help identify lost or stolen 
vessels.  

The HIN can be found on the outboard starboard side of the transom (​ see image below)​. 
 

20 
21 
CHAPTER 2  

Safety Equipment  

Whether you rent, own or borrow a boat, you are required to carry a minimum amount of safety equipment. 
Safety equipment that is easily accessible and in good working order is instrumental to safe boating. 
Remember that the best protection you can give yourself on the water is to always wear your lifejacket or your 
PFD. 

 
All safety equipment on board must be:  

● In good working order;  

● Always easy to reach (so that it can be used in an emergency); and  
● Maintained and replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or recommendations. 

22 
Lifejackets & Personal Floatation Devices   

Remember to wear your lifejacket! Up to ​90%​ of boating-related deaths in the past 10 years had one thing in 
common: the victim was not wearing a properly fitted Personal Floatation Device (PFD), or lifejacket. This 
number one cause of boating fatalities is easy to prevent.  

It is strongly recommended that a lifejacket or a PFD be worn at all times while on a vessel to prevent drowning, 
or at a minimum at least while underway. If a flotation device is not worn, it must be readily accessible. 
 

REMEMBER: There must be at least one approved PFD or lifejacket for each person on board a vessel. 

All boat operators must ensure that there are properly fitted lifejackets or PFDs on board for all passengers. 
Passengers must be informed of the location of the PFDs and instructed on how to put on the PFD properly. In 
the case of an emergency, all passengers must wear a PFD.  

Flotation devices in Canada are categorized into three different types: 

● Lifejackets;  
● Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs); and 
● Inflatable lifejackets. 
 

23 
Lifejackets 

Lifejackets serve the same purpose as PFDs, but do a better job. They are much 
more buoyant than PFDs and ​are specifically designed to turn an unconscious 
person face-up in the water​. Lifejackets come in only three colours: orange, red, 
and yellow. They are bulkier and less comfortable than PFDs. 

There are three types of Canadian-approved lifejackets;  

● Small Vessel Lifejackets ​- are approved for small vessels. They have less 
floatability than the standard type of lifejacket. They will turn you on your back to keep your face out of 
the water, even while unconscious, but may do so more slowly. The small vessel lifejacket comes in a 
keyhole or vest style. 
 
● Standard Lifejackets ​- have a self-righting capability that turns an unconscious person who is face 
down in the water to a face-up position, allowing them to breath. The Standard lifejacket is a keyhole 
style that you put your neck through and secure.  
 
● SOLAS Lifejacket​ - Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) lifejackets meet very high performance standards 
and are approved for all vessels. The SOLAS lifejacket is a keyhole style and will turn you on your back 
in seconds to keep your face out of the water while unconscious. 

REMEMBER: A lifejacket will turn you on your back and keep your face out of the water even if you are 
unconscious. 

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) 

While PFDs are more comfortable than lifejackets because they are designed for 
constant wear, they do not generally offer the same level of floatation as lifejackets 
for staying afloat and they don't put you on your back to keep your face out of the 
water so you can breathe properly. 

24 
Inflatable PFDs     

Inflatable PFDs are not inherently buoyant and do not work unless they are inflated!  

All inflatable PFDs approved in Canada are equipped with a tube. If the CO2 inflation 
mechanism does not work, simply inflate the tube by blowing into it. Time to inflate the 
PFD is quite short, but may seem long if you are not a very good swimmer. 
 

Inflatable personal flotation devices come in two styles: 

● Vest types​ - can be inflated orally, manually (with a CO2 system) or 
automatically; and 
● Pouch types​ - can be orally inflated or manually inflated by pulling a toggle to activate a CO2 inflation 
system. 
 
Inflatable PFDs are NOT approved for: 

● Anyone under 16 years old; 

● Anyone who weighs less than 36.3 kg (80 lbs); 
● Use on any type of p
​ ersonal watercraft​ (i.e. jet ski etc); and 
● Use for white-water paddling activities. 
 
 

REMEMBER: To be approved, the inflatable PFD must be worn on an open boat. If the boat is not open, 
you only need to wear it while you are on deck or in the cockpit. 

25 
Lifejacket / PFD Approval 

All Canadian lifejackets and PFDs must bear an approval label stating that the equipment has been approved 
by one or a combination of the following agencies :  

● The Department of Transport Canada; 

● The Department of Fisheries and Oceans;  
● The Canadian Coast Guard. 
 
A non-Canadian resident may use a PFD or lifejacket from their homeland provided it is in good working order 
and meets that country’s standards. 
 

REMEMBER: Failure to wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is the number one contributing 
factor to recreational boating deaths in Canada. 

26 
Lifejacket / PFD Sizing   

 
Always try on your lifejacket or PFD: 

● Make sure it fits comfortably; 

● Fasten all straps, zippers and ties and raise 

your arms over your head to see if it stays 
in place; and 

● Ask someone to lift your lifejacket or PFD 

straight up at the shoulders. If it fits 
properly, the jacket will stay in place. If the 
zipper touches your nose or the jacket 
almost comes off, it is too loose.  

 
A properly fitted PFD should : 

● Fit snug and allow free movement; and 

● Not ride higher than the wearer’s ears or mouth. 
 
 

REMEMBER: A PFD that is too small may not support the person's weight if the person falls overboard. 

   

27 
Testing Your Lifejacket    

It is a good idea to test the buoyancy of a PFD or lifejacket on a regular basis, as suggested by the 
manufacturer.  

 
You can do this by practicing the following: 

● While wearing the PFD or lifejacket, wade into chest-deep water; 

● Bend at the knees; 
● Then float on your back; and 
● Verify that the Personal Flotation Device and/or lifejacket keeps your chin above water so that it is 
easy to breathe. 

   

28 
Caring for Your Lifejacket   

Lifejackets that are ripped or in poor condition will N

​ OT​ receive Coast Guard approval and must be replaced. 

 
Follow these tips to keep yours in good condition: 

● Check its buoyancy regularly in a pool or by wading out to waist-deep water and bending your knees to 
see how well you float; 
● Make sure that straps, buckles and zippers are clean and work well; 
● Tug on straps to make sure they are well attached and there is no sign of wear; 
● Dry your lifejacket in open air and avoid direct heat sources; 
● Store in a dry, well-ventilated place where they are easy to reach; 
● Do not dry clean or use strong detergents.  
● Use mild soap and warm running water to clean; and 
● Never sit or kneel on your lifejacket or use it as a fender for your boat, it might get damaged and lose 
its approved status. 
 

 
 

29 
Flotation Devices for Children 

 
Children under 12 are required to wear flotation devices or lifejackets at all times unless they are in an enclosed 
area.   

 
Keep in mind the following: 

● Lifejackets are fitted according to the weight and 

size of the child. Test the fit by picking up the child 
by the shoulders of the lifejacket. A lifejacket 
should fit snugly and not ride up over the chin or 
ears. If there are more than 7.6 cm (3”) between 
your child’s shoulders and the device, it is too big 
and could do more harm than good.  

● Special features of children’s lifejackets include a 

strap between the legs to keep the flotation device in place, a supportive collar for the child’s head, 
reflective tape for visibility, safety straps with buckles, and waist ties or elastic gathers in the front and 
back. 

REMEMBER: Children should always wear a lifejacket or PFD (unless they are in an enclosed area) and be 
within your reach. Set a good example and wear yours every time you are on the water. 

   

30 
Lifebuoys    

A lifesaving buoy is designed to be thrown to a person in the water to 

provide buoyancy. The lifebuoy and grab lines must be in good condition 
with no tears, perforations or rot. 

Regulations require that operators of vessels greater than 9 metres carry 

lifebuoys that are attached to a buoyant heaving line.  
 

The buoy must be circular in shape with an outside diameter of either: 

● No less than 610 mm (24”) - Small Vessel Lifebuoy; 

● 762 mm (30”) - SOLAS Lifebuoy. 

 
Lifebuoys that are smaller in size and horseshoe types are not approved by Transport Canada. When buying a 
lifebuoy, select one that carries a sticker showing that it has been approved by Transport Canada. 

 
 
 

Buoyant Heaving Lines    

Heaving lines are designed to be thrown to someone in the water to aid in the rescue of that person. The line 
should be attached to a floating object to help accurately throw to someone in the water. It is recommended to 
practice throwing the buoyant heaving line to increase accuracy. 

 
A buoyant heaving line is approved for use as long as it: 

● Floats and is in good condition;  

● Is made of one full length of rope,  
● Is not made of many shorter ropes tied together; 
● Is long enough for the boat you will be using; and 
● Is used only as a piece of safety equipment. 

 
Under the S
​ mall Vessel Regulations​, a buoyant heaving line must be at least 15 metres in length for boats up to 
24M, and 30 metres in length for boats over 24M. The heaving line must be readily accessible in case of an 
emergency. 

31 
Safety Equipment ​.. continued  

 
Reboarding Device    

A reboarding device is a ladder or system that helps a person climb on board 

the vessel from the water. 

All Pleasure Crafts with a freeboard greater than 0.5 metres must carry a 
reboarding ladder or other equipment (i.e. swim platforms, harness or rope) to 
allow easy reboarding of the vessel from the water.  

Boats equipped with transom ladders or swim platform ladders meet this 
requirement, but the reboarding device cannot be part of the propulsion unit. 
The device must be appropriate for the vessel it is used for. 

Manual Propelling Device     

A manual propelling device is a set of oars, paddles or another device 

that uses human power to propel a vessel. 

A manual propelling device is required on all boats up to 9 metres to 

provide a manual means of propelling the boat if the engine quits. 

Before each boating trip you should check that your manual propelling 
device is within reach and ready for use. 

 
Axe     
Axes can also be used to cut towlines in the event of an emergency. The 
axe must be readily available and not exposed to the elements. Any type 
of axe is accepted (including hatchets) but must be red in colour. A spiked 
axe is the preferred type (see image). 

● 1 axe is required on a vessel more than 12M but less than 24M. 
● 2 axes are required on vessels 24m or larger. 

32 
Bailers and Manual Water Pumps   

A bailer is a container that is capable of removing water from a small vessel.  

A bailer must be made of plastic or metal, have an opening diameter of at 

least 9cm, and be capable of holding at least 750ml of water. Some boats 
may carry a manual water pump in place of a bailer. 

 
For a Manual Water Pump, the pump along with its hose must : 

● Be long enough to reach from the bilge (lowest part of the boat where water collects) to the boat's 
side; and 
● Be capable of discharging water over the side of the boat. 
 
Larger vessels may have an automatic bilge pumping system to remove water that has collected in the bottom 
of the boat. These pump systems are very fast and effective at removing large amounts of water from the 
bilge. Bailers and bilge pumping requirements are based on the length of the vessel. 
 

REMEMBER: A bailer or manual bilge pump is not required for a boat if it cannot hold enough water to 
make it capsize, and is fitted with sealed watertight compartments. 

 
 

Fire Buckets    

Fire buckets must: 

● Be red in color; 
● Be made from metal; 
● Have a rounded bottom; 
● Have a capacity of 10L or more;  
● Have a small hole in the center to prevent water pooling and rusting 
the bucket; and 
● Be fitted with a lanyard of sufficient length to reach the water from the location they are stored.   
 

Fire buckets requirement: 

● 2 fire buckets are required on vessels over 12M in length but less than 24M; or 
● 4 fire buckets are required on vessels over 24M in length. 

33 
Fire Extinguishers    

The letters on a fire extinguisher indicate what types of fires it is designed to fight.  

 
Fires are classified as follows: 

● Class A:​ Materials that burn, such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber and plastic; 
● Class B:​ Liquids that burn, such as gas, oil and grease; 
● Class C:​ Electrical equipment. 

 
A class 5BC fire extinguisher is required on any boat with an inboard motor, a fixed 
fuel tank, or an appliance that burns fuel. The letters BC identify the types of fire that 
the extinguisher will put out (see above).  

The number before the letter(s) on an extinguisher rates the extinguisher's relative fire-fighting effectiveness (a 
10ABC extinguisher puts out a bigger fire than a 5ABC extinguisher).  

The fire extinguisher must be mounted in a convenient and accessible location and checked for the correct 
operating pressure. Show your guests the location prior to starting your outing. 

A marine rated fire extinguisher is highly recommended because of its resistance to corrosion. 

 
Any fire extinguisher you choose must be certified and labeled by either: 

● ULC (Underwriters’ Laboratories of Canada); 

● UL (Underwriters’ Laboratories, Inc., or  
● The U.S. Coast Guard.  

REMEMBER: The number of fire extinguishers required on a boat depends on: 1) the length of the boat, 2) 
type of appliances on board, and 3) sleeping accommodation (if any). 

   

34 
Fire Extinguisher Safety 

Take the following steps to ensure that your fire extinguisher is safe and ready for use at all times: 

● Shake the fire extinguisher vigorously upside-down ​every month​, to prevent clumping of the chemicals 
inside. 
● Do not place your fire extinguisher in areas of high temperature. 
● Replace any old or used fire extinguisher. 
● Have rechargeable fire extinguishers refilled by a qualified professional. 
● Inspect the fire extinguisher for damage on a regular basis. 
● Read and follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions. 
 
 

REMEMBER: To prevent the chemical agent in a fire extinguisher from clumping together you should 
shake it vigorously in the upside-down position every month! 

   

35 
Anchors  

In emergency situations, anchors can be very helpful. If your engine fails and you are at risk of drifting into 
shallow waters or into the path of another vessel, dropping the anchor will keep you from drifting while you wait 
for assistance.  

What makes a good anchor is design and weight. Your anchor selection should depend on the holding power 
needed (relative to size of the boat) and the type of waterway bottom (i.e. mud, sand, rock etc.) 

Having the right anchor and cable for your boat is important. If you do not, rough winds and water can cause it 
to drag, leaving your boat to drift. This is especially dangerous if you are asleep or swimming nearby. Make 
sure your boat is well anchored and keep watch to detect signs of dragging.  

When carrying an anchor on board a pleasure craft, the minimum length of anchor rode (rode is the combined 
length of chain and rope attached to the anchor) required depends on the length of the boat. Make sure the 
anchor is always accessible and the rode is free of entanglements. 
 

REMEMBER: The main factor that determines the type of anchor is the type of bottom of the waterway. 

 
There are a number of different types of anchors: 

Danforth or Fluke Anchor:​ has pivoting flukes that bury the anchor. Best for soft 
mud and grass. 

Plow Anchor:​ is popular with cruising sailors and other private boaters. Generally 
good for all bottoms. 

Mushroom Anchor:​ is suitable where the seabed is flat and composed of silt or fine 
sand.   

36 
Tips On Anchoring    

● Verify that the water has sufficient depth for your hull to clear the bottom yet not be too deep for your 
anchor line. If you are in an area affected by tides, do not forget to consider a rising or falling tide; 

● Make sure that your anchorage provides enough swing room for your boat to swing safely 360 
degrees on the anchor line if the wind changes direction; 

● Pick a spot upwind from where you wish to end up (once you set anchor, you will drift downwind); 

● Provide enough scope. Scope is the ratio between length of the rode and the depth of the anchorage; 

● The amount of scope required to anchor a boat safely depends on weather conditions.​ The 
recommended minimum length of anchor line used for an overnight stay in good weather conditions 
is five (5) to (10) times the depth of water. ​The more sheltered an anchorage, the less scope required; 

● Use larger anchors during adverse sea conditions and ensure the shackle pin has a locking device; 

● Ensure the anchor is lowered from the ​bow​ slowly, not thrown over. Play out enough anchor line to the 
required scope (i.e. a scope of 5:1 in sheltered area), then tie off the line on the ​bow​ cleat; 

● Make sure that once the line is secured, you backup your vessel slowly until the anchor line goes taut. 
This indicates that the anchor is set into the bottom; 

● Never set an anchor over the side or over the stern of a boat under 6m in length. If waves build up, 
the boat could be swamped and sink; and 

● Attaching an anchor chain between an anchor and the anchor line weighs down the anchor and helps it 
set into the bottom. 

37 
DISTRESS AND SIGNALLING EQUIPMENT 

 
Marine Distress Signals     

All boaters are required to assist those in distress if it can be done without endangering their own life or the 
safety of their vessel.  

If you have an operating VHF marine radio or cell phone, you must also contact the nearest J
​ oint Rescue 
Coordination Center (JRCC)​ or the M
​ arine Communication Traffic Service​ (​MCTS)​ center and inform them of the 
type and location of the distress signal that you saw or heard. 

It is an offence to send a false distress signal by whatever means. If a rescue unit is responding to a false call 
for help, it is unavailable for a real emergency, which could cost somebody their life.  

Distress signals are not permitted during training sessions or during non-distress situations. 

   

38 
Distress Signals 

There are many different ways to indicate the need of assistance. 

 
VHF Marine Radio   

AV
​ ery High Frequency (VHF)​ marine radio is the best way of 
communicating between two or more vessels when on the water.  

VHF is the preferred method of distress calling and is far superior to cell 
phones in seeking help in boating emergencies. When a Mayday is sent out 
via a VHF radio, it is broadcast to Coast Guard radio stations as well as any 
VHF-equipped boat within range. These other boat operators may be the 
first to render assistance. 

All VHF marine radio operators must have a ​Restricted Operator Certificate Maritime (ROC-M)​. To obtain an 
ROC-M certificate, contact the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron (CPS) at: w
​ ww.cps-ecp.ca 

The Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons (CPS) has been delegated by the Government of Canada to deliver 
VHF/ROC-M training and test services. 

REMEMBER: VHF radio is considered the best way to call for help because other boaters will be alerted of 
the emergency at the same time as the Coast Guard. These other boat operators may be the first to 
render assistance. 

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)  

Newer VHF radios usually come equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on Channel 70. The important 
safety feature of VHF radio equipped with DSC is that it allows a vessel in distress to transmit a rapid distress 
alert at the push of a button. When connected to a global positioning unit (GPS) receiver equipped with DSC, 
the distress alert will also send the coordinates of the vessel in distress. Channel 70 is only available on 
VHF-DCS equipped radios. DSC is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). 

39 
Global Positioning System (GPS) 

While more and more boat operators rely on marine GPS to tell them where they are on the water, it is a good 
idea to keep charts on board in case of a GPS failure. The GPS is a worldwide radio-navigation system made 
possible by a network of satellites and\monitoring stations. 

 
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon 
(EPIRB) 
 
A distress signal can be sent by activating the alarm on an Emergency Position 
Indicating Radio Beacon. Once activated, EPIRBs send out an electronic distress signal 
with your position, which can be tracked by satellite and aircraft.  

This signal is then relayed to rescue centers around the world. Not all vessels are 
required to carry an EPIRB, but you would be wise to carry one when operating on large 
open bodies of water. 

EPIRBs need to be registered with the Canadian Beacon Registry at: ​www.cbr-rcb.ca 

   

40 
Cell Phone    

Cell phones can also be used to call for assistance. If you are close to shore and have cell phone coverage, you 
can also use *16 on your cell phone to reach The Canadian Coast Guard Marine Communications and Traffic 
Services Center. Make sure your cell phone batteries are fully charged prior to heading out on the water. 
 

 
Limits of A Cell Phone 
Limits of a cell phone include: 
 

● They are very limited in coverage and only accessible when you are 
in the range of a cell phone tower;  

● They can lose reception or get wet and damaged; 

● Calling from your cell phone does not alert nearby vessels that you 
are in distress – they could be the ones to help you if they could 
hear you; and 

● Some cell phone signals cannot be followed back to your location 

by rescuers.  

.  
 

REMEMBER: Not all cell phone providers offer the (*16) service linking boaters directly with Marine 
Communication Traffic Service (MCTS) Centers. Boaters should test the *16 option or contact their 
service provider to ensure that *16 service is available prior to heading out on the water. 

   

41 
Calling Procedures 

If your vessel is in distress or in need of emergency assistance, you can use the V
​ HF channel 16​ on your VHF 
marine radio. Channel 16 is reserved for emergencies only. Keep a list of emergency contacts on board. It is 
best to seek assistance early before the situation gets worse. 
 

Use the following procedures in your broadcast: 

● “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday”​ – which indicates there is an immediate danger to persons or ship (for 
example, your boat is taking on water and you are in danger of sinking or capsizing); 

● “Pan-Pan, Pan-Pan, Pan-Pan”​ – indicates an urgent message concerning the safety of a person or 
ship but you are not in immediate danger (for example, your motor has quit and you cannot reach 
shore); or 

● “​Securité, Securité, Securité”​ - indicates a message concerning the safety of navigation or important 
meteorological warnings. 

 
After your broadcast, state the following: 

● Name​ of your vessel and call sign; 

● Position​ of your vessel / nearest landmark; 
● Description​ of the emergency;  
● Number ​of people onboard; and  
● Type​ of assistance required. 
 
   

42 
Watertight Flashlight     

In an emergency, a flashlight can be used to signal for help. Almost 

all vessels are required to have at least one watertight flashlight.  

A watertight flashlight qualifies as a navigation light on non-powered 

vessels (canoes, rowboats, or sailing dinghies) as well as on 
sailboats less than 7m. Flashlights can be used as an alternative to 
flares for certain vessels. A kayaker should display a flashlight at 
night to prevent a collision. 

An S.O.S distress signal can be sent by turning on and off the flashlight in the following pattern : 

● Three short bursts; 

● Three long bursts; and 
● Three short bursts. 

REMEMBER: Check the flashlight batteries before each trip. It is a good idea to carry extra batteries on 
board in a sealed bag. 

   

43 
Signaling Distress ​..​ Other Methods   

Some distress signals can only be used in daylight conditions. 

Distress Cloth / Code Flags 

● Orange cloth/flag with a black circle and square shape, or an N over C. 
● Fly the distress cloth from the mast or place it on top of the boat. 
 

Arm Signal 

● Raising and lowering outstretched arms repeatedly. 

Dye Marker 

● Orange dye released into the water is recognised as a distress signal. 

   

44 
Flares    

 
Pyrotechnic distress signals (flares and smoke bombs) can be highly visible.  
 

Pyrotechnic distress signals must be: 

● Kept in good condition; 

● Within their expiry date; 
● Stored vertically in a cool, dry, secure location; 
● Stored in a red or orange watertight container 
marked "DISTRESS SIGNALS”; and 
● Safely stored according to the manufacturer’s 
recommendations. 

The number of flares required on a vessel depends on the: 

● Length and type of the vessel; 

● Its area of operation; and  
● The type of equipment onboard. 

All approved flares are valid for only four (4) years from their date of manufacture, which is stamped on every 
flare. All pyrotechnic devices must be approved by Transport Canada. 

Consult your local law enforcement agency or a local fire department for advice on the safe disposal of 
out-of-date pyrotechnic devices; do not throw them overboard. 

REMEMBER: Always read and follow all the manufacturer's instructions before using a pyrotechnic 
device. 

45 
 

Flares​ ​.. Continued 

 
There are four main types of pyrotechnic devices (Types A, B, C, and D): 

● Type A: Rocket Parachute Flare​ - An aerial flare that, when launched, reaches a height of 
approximately 300m and then floats down beneath a parachute. 

● Type B: Multi-Star Flare​ - An aerial flare that, when launched, fires two red stars to a height of 100m. 
They burn for 4 to 5 seconds and are visible from the air or from the surface. 

● Type C: Hand Flare​ - A red-flame torch that can be held in the hand. It has limited visibility and is best 
used to help rescuers pinpoint your location during an air search. 

● Type D: Buoyant or Hand Smoke Signal -​ A smoke bomb that can be held in the hand or left to float 
on the water. 

Tips on Using Flares 

You may use flares only in an emergency when you believe there is a chance of them being seen.  

● Aerial Flares - ​Fire aerial flares at an angle into the wind. In strong wind, lower the angle to 45 
degrees, at most. 

● Hand-Held Flares ​-​ When lighting the flare, hold it clear of the boat and downwind. Do not look 
directly at the flare while it is burning.  

46 
47 
CHAPTER 3  

Navigation Lights   

Navigation lights are required if a vessel is o

​ perated 
between sunset and sunrise or in periods of restricted 
visibility.​ These lights ensure that the vessel is visible 
from all sides after dark or in poor visibility (fog or rain). 

The colour and location of navigation lights displayed by a 

vessel vary depending on the size of the vessel, whether it 
is sail-driven or power-driven, and whether it is underway 
or at anchor.  

Navigation lights also help vessels that are converging on crossing courses to determine which has the right of 
way. Lights must be plainly visible at different distances, depending on the length of the vessel (refer to Rule 22 
in the C
​ ollision Regulations​ for more details).  

Since light configurations differ between power-driven vessels and sailboats, navigation lights can help you to 
determine if the vessel you are meeting is under power, under sail, or at anchor. This information, combined 
with the colours of the lights that you see, will help you determine if you should stand on or give way. 
 
 

Ensure your lights are always in good working order. Always test your vessel’s lights before heading out on the 
water. Carry spare bulbs on board as a bulb could burn out at any time. 
 
 

REMEMBER: Navigation lights must be displayed from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility. 

   

48 
Types of Lights 
Port Sidelight ​- Displays a red light on the port side (left), showing an 
unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112.5 degrees.  
 
  

Starboard Sidelight -​ Displays a green light on the starboard side (right), 

showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112.5 degrees.  
 
 

Sternlight -​ A white light placed as close as possible to the stern (back), 

showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135 degree. 

Masthead Light​ - A white light placed over the fore and aft centerline of the 
vessel, showing an unbroken white light over an arc of 225 degrees.  

Towing Light​ - A yellow light having the same characteristics as a 

sternlight. 

All-round Light ​- A light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the 

horizon of 360 degrees. 

Flashing Light -​ A light that flashes at regular intervals, at a frequency of 

120 or more per minute. 

Special Flashing Light​ - A yellow light that flashes at a frequency of 50-70 

flashes per minute. It is mounted as far forward over the front and rear 
centerline of the vessel. It displays an unbroken arc of yellow light no less 
than 180 degrees and no more than 225 degrees. 

 
 
Blue Flashing Light​ - An all-round blue light that flashes at regular intervals 
of 50-70 flashes per minute. Police boats and Canadian Coast Guard 
Auxiliary boats display blue flashing lights. 

49 
Lights: Power Driven Vessels 

All power driven vessels operating under periods of darkness or reduced visibility must display the following: 

● Sidelights: ​The port sidelight displays a red light through a horizontal arc of 112.5 degrees. The 
starboard sidelight displays a green light through a horizontal arc of 112.5 degrees. Sidelights are 
mounted so that the light shows from straight ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on its respective 
side. On a vessel of less than 20 metres in length, the sidelights may be combined with one lantern 
installed on the bow of the vessel. 

● All round white light: ​ - A white light shining constantly over the horizon at an arc of 360 degrees.  

 
If a vessel is ​more than 12 metres​ in length, it must display, from sunset to sunrise, a white masthead light 
forward and a stern light which together will display 360 degrees of white light.  

If a power-driven vessel is l​ ess than 12 metres ​in length, it may, in addition to sidelights, exhibit an all-round 
white light instead of the masthead light and the sternlight (​ see image below)​. 
 

REMEMBER: A port sidelight displays a red light on the port side (left when facing forward in the boat) 
and a starboard sidelight displays a green light on the starboard (right). 

50 
Lights: Sailboats 

A vessel under sail must display red and green sidelights, along with a sternlight ​(Fig. A)​.  
 

Sail-driven vessels under 20 m in length have the option of displaying : 

● Two all-round lights near the top of the mast (an all round red light over and all round green light). In 
addition to the green and red sidelights and stern light (​ Fig. B)​; or 

● A tri-light at the top of the mast (in lieu of sidelights and a stern light) while underway between sunset 
and sunrise. A tri-light is divided into three sectors: a red light showing through a horizontal arc of 
112.5degrees, a green light displayed through an arc of 112.5degrees, and a white light (to show 
across the stern) displayed through an arc of 135 degrees (​ Fig. C)​. 

For non-powered vessels and/or sailing vessels that are under 7m in length the operator must have readily at 
hand a ​waterproof flashlight ​or lantern showing a white light so that an approaching boat can be signaled in 
time to avoid a collision. It is sometimes effective to use the light to illuminate the sail ​(Fig. D)​. 

 
Navigation light options for sail boats are as follows : 

   
51 
Lights: Other Vessels 

Fishing Boats 

Fishing Vessels are required at night to exhibit ​two all-round 

lights in a vertical line​, the upper being red (green if trawling) and 
the lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with their 
apexes together in a vertical line, one above the other.  

You must stay well clear of all fishing vessels. 

REMEMBER: A fishing vessel will display: sidelights, a sternlight and two all-round lights (red over white) 

Vessel Under Oars or Paddles 

Vessels under oars (such as canoes, kayaks and rowboats) without a power supply to operate navigation lights 
must carry a ​waterproof flashlight or lantern​ showing a white light to signal their presence to other vessels 
when traveling in the dark. The light must be readily available to use at any moment to prevent a collision. 

Note :​ Small rowboats, canoes and kayaks sit very low in the water and can easily sink or capsize if swamped 
by large waves. If operating a powerboat, you need to slow down and be aware of the wake your boat is 
producing around small paddle crafts. 

REMEMBER: To prevent a collision, the minimum a rowboat should display at night is a flashlight. 

Vessels at Anchor 

If a vessel (including sailboats and human-powered vessels) 

under 50m in length is at anchor, it must display ​an all-round 
light (360 degrees)​ between the hours of sunset and sunrise. 

52 
Lights : Other Vessels 

Towboats 

When a vessel is towing or pushing and the tow is less 

than 200m (656 feet) from bow to stern, the tow vessel 
must display ​sidelights, a stern light, a yellow light 
directly above her stern light, and two masthead lights 
in a vertical line. 

When the tow is greater than 200m (656 feet) from bow 
to stern, the tow vessel shall display three masthead 
lights in a vertical line.  

The object or vessel being towed or pushed may display 

a f​ lashing yellow light i​ n addition to standard navigation lights.  

Depending on the configuration, the tow vessel and vessel(s) or object(s) being towed or pushed may be 
identified as a single lit vessel or separate lit vessels.  

REMEMBER: Be careful of submerged tow lines not visible to boaters. Never travel between a tow vessel 
and the object or vessel being towed! 

 
Pleasure Craft Towing Another Boat 

While on the water, you may be asked to assist another boat by towing it to a safe location. When doing so it is 
important to make sure your boat and the boat you are towing are as visible as possible. You must display your 
regular navigation lights and illuminate the tow rope by using a flashlight or another light source. This will help 
prevent other boaters passing between the two boats and hitting the tow line.  

Government or Police Vessels 

A blue flashing all-round light is used by police and enforcement agencies. If you see a blue flashing light you 
should slow down and be prepared to stop if requested or approached by a police boat.   

53 
Sound Signalling Devices and Appliances     

Sound travels well over water. Thus, sound signaling devices are an excellent means of:  

● Communicating your maneuvering intention; 

● Alerting others of your presence in restricted visibility; and 
● Drawing attention to emergencies. 

Sound signals are sent by emitting a continuous or intermittent sound with a horn, whistle or explosive signal. 

Difference between Sound Signalling Appliance and Device 

● Sound-Signalling Appliance​ - ​ Is permanently fitted on the vessel (i.e. horn, gong or bell).  
● Sound Signalling Device​ -​ Is simply carried on board - this can be a gas horn or a pealess whistle. 
 

Vessels must have an efficient means of producing sound signals based on the vessel’s length: 

● Vessels less than 12m (39.4 feet) in length not already fitted with a sound signalling appliance must 
carry a sound signalling device such as a pealess whistle or a horn (electric or compressed gas); 

● Vessels 12m (39.4 feet) or more in length must carry a sound signalling appliance (whistle) on board;  

● Vessels 20m (65.6 feet) or more in length must have a fitted bell in addition to a whistle. 
 

REMEMBER: A sound signalling device or appliance is required on a

​ ll ​pleasure craft. 

54 
Sound Signals - Navigation     

 
There are no lines on the water as on roadways. Operators have to understand both sound and light signals to 
communicate to others what they are about to do and understand what other operators are going to do. 

Sound signals are frequently used by commercial-type vessels (i.e. cargo ships, ferries etc.) operating in busy 
waterways and/or ports. 

Sound signals consist of short (1 second) and prolonged (4-6 seconds) blasts of a vessel's horn or whistle. 
 

 
The following are some basic examples of some common sound signals and their meanings:  

SOUND  SOUND MEANING 

One short blast  “I am altering my course to starboard” 

Two short blasts  “I am altering my course to port” 

Three short blasts  “My engine is in reverse” 

One prolonged blast  “Warning - departing dock or entering/exiting blind spot” 

Five short blasts  “Danger - I do not understand your intentions” 

REMEMBER: Five short blasts means “Danger - the vessel operator does not understand your intentions” 

55 
Sound Signals - Restricted Visibility    
 
You should use sound signals to alert other boaters to your presence in the area, if visibility is restricted (due to 
fog, rain etc). 

 
The following are examples of sound signals used in restricted visibility: 

VESSEL TYPE  SITUATION  SOUND REQUIREMENT 

Power Vessel  Underway  Prolonged blast every two minutes. 

Sailing Vessel  Underway  Prolonged blast + two short blasts every two minutes. 

Underway but  
Sailing Vessel  Two prolonged blasts every two minutes. 
not moving 

Any Vessel  Anchored  Five seconds of rapid blasts / bell ringing every minute. 

Three bell strokes + five seconds of rapid bell ringing + three bell  
Any Vessel  Run aground 
strokes every minute. 

   

56 
Navigation Aids  
 
Radar Reflector    

 
A radar reflector is a metallic device that helps small boats 
show up on the radar screens of larger boats. 

The best place to install a radar reflector is above all 

equipment and as high as possible. 

All non-metallic vessels and all vessels less than 20m in 
length should be equipped with a radar reflector mounted 
above the superstructure and not less than 4m above the 
water, if possible.  

You are not required to carry a reflector if: 

● You operate during daylight or in areas with limited traffic and favourable environmental conditions; 

● It is not essential to the safety of your boat, it is impractical to mount, or if you operate where radar is 
not used by other vessels. 

 
 

Magnetic Compass   

A magnetic compass is used to measure a boat's course and direction in all 

weather conditions and does not require batteries or electricity to function. 

A magnetic compass can be used to: 

● Take bearings of objects (floating and fixed) and can assist in plotting 
a position on a chart; and 

● Determine another vessel’s course relative to your vessel’s course 

(another vessel that keeps a constant bearing and reduction in range 
could indicate a possible collision course). 

 
Due to the nature of a magnetic compass, it can be influenced by other 
metallic objects and electronic devices. For this reason, it’s important to keep the magnetic compass in an area 
free of magnetic and electrical interference. A magnetic compass may be required depending on the vessel's 
length, if the vessel is operating more than 1 nautical mile from shore and/or outside of navigational sea 
marks.   

57 
Marine Charts      

Nautical charts (marine charts) are a useful source of 

information to boaters, especially on water depth, the type 
of bottom, the type of shoreline, current direction, coastal 
altitude, easily identifiable landmarks, and aids to 
navigation.  

Before you travel in a new area, make sure you only use 
the most recent and up to date nautical charts available to 
determine whether you will encounter any overhead or 
underwater hazards. Obtain as much information as 
possible on the area that you plan to visit in your boat. 

Reading marine charts in conjunction with other publications such as Sailing Directions and/or with tide and 
current tables will indicate water depths, times of low, slack, and high tides, and the direction and rates of flow. 
 

● The ​Canadian Hydrographic Service p

​ ublishes marine charts to help boaters with navigation. 

● The Canadian Hydrographic Service also publishes the C

​ anadian Tide and Current tables. 

● The Canadian Tide and Current Tables provide information about tides, as well as direction and rates 
of water flow. 

● Fisheries and Oceans Canada​ publishes a wide range of information to help boaters understand their 
marine charts. 

● Sailing Directions​ is a valuable free publication produced through the Canadian Hydrographic Service. 
This publication provides additional information not always shown on nautical charts. 

● Charts and Cruising Guides will help you identify places to take shelter in event of foul weather 
 

To know which regional chart is most appropriate for your activity, consult the Canadian Hydrographic Service’s 
Nautical Chart Catalogue​. This catalogue is a large map showing the area covered by each available chart. For 
information on how to obtain charts, visit the Canadian Hydrographic Service website: w
​ ww.charts.gc.ca 
 
 

REMEMBER: It is important to have up to date nautical charts so you can be aware of the latest changes 
on routes, buoys and water depth. 

58 
Marine Charts​ .. Continued 
 

To help make navigation safer, the law requires you to carry the following for each area you plan to boat in:  

● The latest edition of the​ largest scale​ nautical chart (when available); and  

● The latest edition of related documents and publications, including Notices to Mariners, Sailing 
Directions, tide and current tables, and the List of Lights, Buoys and Fog Signals. 

You must be able to plot your position/course and read the chart symbols (i.e. dangers, buoys etc.). 
 

The documents, charts and publications may not be necessary if your boat weighs less than 100 tons and that 
you have sufficient knowledge of the waterways including:  

● Shipping routes;  
● Lights, buoys and marks;  
● Boating hazards; and  
● Boating conditions, such as tides, currents, ice and weather patterns. 
 
If you are boating in an area not covered by marine charts, ask knowledgeable local residents for information 
on potential water hazards such as low-head dams, white water, and shoals. 
 
If you are using GPS and/or electronic charts, always keep paper charts on board as a backup. 

59 
Required Safety Equipment     

According to the ​Small Vessel Regulations​, the following is a list of the minimum safety equipment that all 
vessels operating in Canadian waters must have on board, depending on the t​ ype​ and ​length​ of the boat.  

 
You can find the length of your boat:  

● By reading the manufacturer’s product information; or  

● By measuring it yourself (from the front outside surface of the hull shell to the back outside surface of 
the hull shell – bow to stern). 

 
Boat operators must ensure that all the equipment is on board, in good working order, maintained according to 
the manufacturer's instructions, and readily accessible in case of emergency. All fire extinguishers must be 
serviced and kept fully charged. Your safety and the safety of your passengers depend on it. 

For additional specific equipment requirements (e.g. visibility arc of lights, sound signaling appliances etc) 
based on the type of pleasure craft and its length, refer to the C
​ ollision Regulations​ and the ​Small Vessel 
Regulations​. 

These equipment requirements apply only to pleasure craft and are the same whether you own, rent or borrow 
a boat in Canada.  
 

REMEMBER: ​Readily accessible​ - means being able to reach the safety equipment easily and safely under 
emergency conditions without the use of tools. 

   

60 
 
PERSONAL 
BOAT TYPE AND  VESSEL SAFETY  NAVIGATION  FIRE FIGHTING 
LIFESAVING  VISUAL SIGNALS  
LENGTH  EQUIPMENT   EQUIPMENT   EQUIPMENT  
APPLIANCES 

- P​ addleboats   1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person on 
I​ f boat is over 6 m  
4. One (1) watertight 
6. One (1) bailer   
OR   
7. One (1) 
sound-signalling 
None  

-W ​ atercycles   board*   flashlight 5. Six (6)  One manual bilge pump    device or appliance  
2. One (1) reboarding  flares of Type A, B, C or  (​See Note 3​)   8. Navigation lights  
- S​ tandup  device (​ See Note 1)   D, only two (2) can be  OR   (​See Note 4​)  
Paddleboards   3. One (1) buoyant heaving  Type D. ​(S
​ ee Note 2)  Bilge-pumping arrangement  
9. One (1) magnetic 
- S​ ealed-Hull and  line at least 15 m  compass ​(​See Note 5​)  
Sit-on-Top Kayaks  (49’3”) long  10.One (1) radar reflector   
(​See Note 6​)  

* If everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket or a PFD of appropriate size, you are only required to carry   
. 1​ ) a sound-signalling device; and  
. 2​ ) a watertight flashlight if the boat is used after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility. 

- C​ anoes   1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person on 
​ If boat is over 6 m   6. One (1) bailer   
OR   
7. One (1) 
sound-signalling 
None  
4. One (1) watertight   
- K​ ayaks   board   flashlight   One manual bilge pump    device or appliance  
2. One (1) reboarding  (​See Note 3​)   8. Navigation lights  
- R​ owboats   device ​ (​See Note 1​)  
5. Six (6) flares of Type A, 
B, C or D, only two (2)  OR    (​See Note 4​)  
- R​ owing Shells   3. One (1) buoyant heaving  can be Type D. (​ ​See  Bilge-pumping 
9. One (1) magnetic 
line at least 15 m  Note 2​)  arrangements   compass​ (​See Note 5​)  
-O ​ ther Human  (49’3”) long  10.One (1) radar reflector   
Powered Boats   (​See Note 6​)  

- S​ ailboards   1. One (1) lifejacket or PFD 

for each person on 
None   5. One (1) manual 
propelling device  
7. One (1) 
sound-signalling 
None  

- K​ iteboards  board*   OR   device or appliance  

2. One (1) reboarding  One (1) anchor and at  8. Navigation lights  
device ​ (​See Note 1​)   least 15 m (49’3”) of  (​See Note 4​)  
3. One (1) buoyant heaving  cable, rope or chain in any 
9. One (1) magnetic 
combination  
line at least 15 m  compass​ (​See Note 5​)  
(49’3”) long  6. One (1) bailer or 
10.One (1) radar reflector   
manual bilge pump    (​See Note 6​)  
(​See Note 3​) 

* If everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket or a PFD of appropriate size, you are only required to carry :  
. 1​ ) a sound-signalling device; and  
. 2​ ) a watertight flashlight if the boat is used after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility.  
NOTE: Kiteboarders and sailboarders should not wear a lifejacket or PFD that is fitted with an automatic inflator. 
 
 
 
 
PERSONAL 
BOAT TYPE AND  VESSEL SAFETY  FIRE FIGHTING 
LIFESAVING  VISUAL SIGNALS   NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT  
LENGTH  EQUIPMENT   EQUIPMENT  
APPLIANCES 

- P​ ersonal  1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person 
4. One (1) watertight 
flashlight OR   
5. One (1) manual 
propelling device  
7. One (1) 
sound-signalling 
11. One (1) 5BC fire 
extinguisher  
Watercraft (PWC)   on board*   Three (3) flares of  OR   device or appliance   
2. One (1) reboarding  Type A, B, C or D,  One (1) anchor and at  8. Navigation lights  
device (​ ​See Note 1​)   only one (1) can be  least 15 m (49’3”) of  (​See Note 4​)   
3. One (1) buoyant heaving  Type D   cable, rope or chain in 
9. One (1) magnetic 
(​See Note 2​)  any combination   
line at least 15 m  compass (​ S ​ ee Note 5​)  
(49’3”) long  6. One (1) bailer or 
10. One (1) radar   
manual bilge pump   reflector   
(​See Note 3​) 
(​See Note 6​)  

* If every person on board a personal watercraft is wearing a lifejacket or a PFD of an appropriate size, you are only required to carry:  
. 1​ ) a sound-signalling device;  
. 2​ ) a watertight flashlight or three (3) flares of Type A, B, C or D, only one (1) can be Type D;  
. 3​ ) a magnetic compass if the personal watercraft is navigated out of sight of navigation marks; and  
. 4​ ) navigation lights if the personal watercraft is used after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility.  
NOTE: Lifejacket or PFD must be inherently buoyant. 

- S​ ail and Power  1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person 
If boat is equipped with   
a motor  
5. One (1) manual 
propelling device   
7. One (1) 
sound-signalling 
11. One (1) 5BC fire 
extinguisher if equipped 
Boats up to 6 m  on board    4. One (1) watertight  OR   device or appliance   with an inboard engine, 
(19’8”)   2. One (1) reboarding  flashlight ​ OR   One (1) anchor and at  8. Navigation lights   a fixed fuel tank of any 
device (​ ​See Note 1​)    Three (3) flares of  least 15 m (49’3”) of  (​See Note 4​)   size, or a fuel burning 
3. One (1) buoyant heaving  Type A, B, C or D,  cable, rope or chain in  cooking, heating or 
9. One (1) magnetic 
only one (1) can be  any combination    refrigerating appliance  
line at least 15 m  compass (​See Note 5​)  
(49’3”) long   Type D.   6. One (1) bailer or 
10. One (1) radar   
(​See Note 2​)  manual bilge pump   reflector (​See Note 6​)  
(​See Note 3​) 

- S​ ail and Power  1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person 
4. One (1) watertight 
flashlight 5. Six (6) flares 
6. One (1) manual 
propelling device  
8. One (1) sound 
signalling device or 
12. One (1) 5BC fire 
extinguisher if equipped 
Boats over 6 m  on board   of Type A, B, C or D, only  OR   appliance   with a motor  
and up to 9 m  2. One (1) reboarding  two (2) can be Type D.   One (1) anchor and at  9. Navigation lights    13. One (1) 5BC fire 
(19’8” - 29’6”)   device​ (​See Note 1​)   (​See Note 2​)  least 15 m (49’3”) of  (​See Note 4​)   extinguisher if equipped 
3. One (1) buoyant heaving  cable, rope or chain in  with a fuel burning 
10. One (1) magnetic 
any combination   cooking, heating or 
line at least 15 m  compass (​See Note 5​)  
(49’3”) long   7. One (1) bailer or  refrigerating appliance  
11. One (1) radar   
OR   manual bilge pump    reflector (​See Note 6​)  
One (1) lifebuoy  (​See Note 3​) 
attached to a buoyant 
line at least 15 m 
(49’3”) long 

 
 PERSONAL 
BOAT TYPE AND  VESSEL SAFETY  FIRE FIGHTING 
LIFESAVING  VISUAL SIGNALS   NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT  
LENGTH  EQUIPMENT   EQUIPMENT  
APPLIANCES 

- S​ ail and Power  1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person  
5. One (1) watertight 
flashlight 6. Twelve 
7. One (1) anchor and at 
least 30 m (98’5”) of 
9. One (1) 
sound-signalling 
13. One (1) 10BC fire   
extinguisher if equipped   
Boats over 9 m  2. One (1) reboarding  (12) flares of Type A,  cable, rope or chain in  device or appliance   with a motor  
and up to 12m  device​ (​See Note 1​)   B, C or D, only six (6)  any combination   10. Navigation lights   14. One (1) 10BC fire   
(29’6” – 39’4”)   3. One (1) buoyant heaving  can be Type D ​(​See  8. One (1) manual bilge  (​See Note 4​)   extinguisher if equipped   
line at least 15m   Note 2​)  pump ​(S​ ee Note 3​)   with a fuel-burning 
11. One (1) magnetic 
4.One (1) lifebuoy  OR   compass ​(​See Note 5​)   cooking, heating or 
attached to a buoyant  Bilge-pumping  12. One (1) radar reflector  refrigerating appliance  
line at least 15 m long  arrangements   (​See Note 6​)  

- S​ ail and Power  1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person 
5. One (1) watertight 
flashlight 6. Twelve 
7. One (1) anchor and at 
least 50 m (164’1”) of 
9. One (1) sound signalling 
appliance. Two 
13. One (1) 10BC fire   
extinguisher at all of the 
Boats over 12 m  on board   (12) flares of Type A,  cable, rope or chain  required if the boat is  following locations:  
and up to 24 m  2. One (1) reboarding  B, C or D, only six (6)  in any combination 8.  20 m and over that  . a​ t each access to any 
(39’4” – 78’9”)   device (​ ​See Note 1​)    can be Type D ​(​See  Bilge-pumping    meets the applicable 
space where a fuel 
3. One (1) buoyant  Note 2​)  arrangements   standards set out in 
burning cooking, heating 
the C​ ollision 
heaving line at least  or refrigerating appliance 
Regulations  
15 m (49 ’3”) long   is fitted;  
10. Navigation lights (​Note 4​)  
4. One (1) lifebuoy 
11. One (1) magnetic  . a​ t the entrance to any   
equipped with a  accommodation area;  
compass that meets the 
self-igniting light or 
attached to a buoyant 
requirements set out in  . a​ t the entrance to the   
the ​Navigation Safety  machinery space.  
line at least 15 m 
Regulations​ (​ S
​ ee Note 5​)   14. One (1) axe  
(49’3”) long 
12. One (1) radar reflector  15. Two (2) buckets of at 
(​See Note 6​)  
least 10 L each  

- S​ ail and Power  1. One (1) lifejacket or 

PFD for each person 
6. One (1) watertight 
flashlight 7. Twelve 
8. One (1) anchor and at 
least 50 m (164’1”) of 
10. Two (2) sound-signalling 
appliances that meets 
14. One (1) 10BC fire 
extinguisher at all of the 
Boats over 24 m  on board   (12) flares of Type A,  cable, rope or chain in  the applicable standards  following locations:  
(78’9”)   2. One (1) reboarding  B, C or D, only six (6)  any combination   set out in the​ C​ ollision  . a​ t each access to any 
device (​ ​See Note 1​)   can be Type D ​(​See  9. Bilge-pumping  Regulations  
space where a fuel 
3. One (1) buoyant  Note 2​)  arrangements   11. Navigation lights  
burning cooking, heating 
(​See Note 4​)  
heaving line at least  or refrigerating appliance; 
12. One (1) magnetic 
30m long  
compass that meets the  . a​ t the entrance to any   
4. Two (2) SOLAS  accommodation space;  
requirements set out in 
lifebuoys, of which:   the ​Navigation Safety  . a​ t the entrance to the 
. o​ ne (1) is attached to a    Regulations   machinery space.  
buoyant line at least  (​See Note 5​)  
15. One (1) power-driven 
30 m (98 ’5”) long;  13. One (1) radar  fire pump located 
and   reflector (​See Note  outside the machinery 
. o​ ne (1) is equipped with  6​)  space, with one fire 
a self-igniting light.   hose and nozzle 
5. Lifting harness with    16. Two (2) axes  
appropriate rigging  17. Four (4) buckets  
 
Note 1 – Reboarding Device    Note 3 – Bailer and Manual Bilge Pump  
   
A reboarding device is only required if the vertical height that a person  A bailer or manual bilge pump is not required for a boat that cannot hold 
must climb to reboard the boat from the water (freeboard) is over 0.5m.   enough water to make it capsize or a boat that has watertight compartments 
  that are sealed and not readily accessible.  
Note 2 – Flares    

  Note 4 – Navigation Lights  

Flares are not required for a boat that:     
• ​is operating on a river, canal or lake in which it can never be more  Navigation lights are only required if you operate the boat after sunset, before 
than one (1) nautical mile (1.852 km) from shore; or    sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility (fog, falling snow, etc.).  
• ​has no sleeping quarters and is engaged in an official competition or   
in final preparation for an official competition.   
Note 5 – Magnetic Compass  
 
 
The number of flares required may be reduced by 50 percent (the 
A magnetic compass is not required if the boat is 8 m (26’3”) or less and you 
number of smoke signals cannot exceed 50% of the number of smoke 
operate it within sight of navigation marks.   
signals given in the tables above) if the boat has one of the following:  
• ​A means of two-way communication*;    
• ​A 406 MHz personal locator beacon** that is worn by the boat  Note 6 – Radar Reflector  
operator; or    
• ​A 406 MHz emergency position-indicating radio beacon***.   Radar reflectors are required for boats under 20 m (65’7”) and boats built of 
  mostly non-metallic materials. A radar reflector is not required if:   
*​ The means of two-way communication may include a Very High   
Frequency (VHF) marine radio, a satellite telephone or a cell phone (if  • t​ he boat is used in limited traffic conditions, daylight and favourable 
the VHF radio or the cell phone is located in a coverage area.)   environmental conditions, and where having a radar reflector is not 
   essential to the boat’s safety; or   
**​ A 406 MHz personal locator beacon (PLB) must meet the  • t​ he small size of the boat or its operation away from radar navigation 
requirements under the ​Radiocommunication Act​. All Canadian  makes it impossible to install or use a radar reflector.   
coded PLBs should be registered with the Canadian Beacon Registry   
at https://www.cbr-rcb.ca/cbr/  
Other Exceptions to Equipment Requirements 
 
 
*** A 406 MHz emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) 
There are further exceptions to the required equipment for specific vessel 
must meet the requirements of the Ship Station Radio Technical 
types. Additional information on the following exceptions can be found in 
Regulations and must also be registered with the Canadian Beacon 
Section 2 Subparts 3, 4, and 5 of the Canadian Small Vessel Regulations 
Registry. See above.   
 
 
Requirements for Boats Involved in Competition   competition or in final preparation for an official competition and:   

    
•a
​ re attended by a safety craft that, in addition to its own safety equipment, 
If you use your boat for racing you may be allowed to carry alternative 
safety equipment during:    carries a lifejacket or PFD that fits, for each crew member of the racing boat 

  with the biggest crew; or   

• ​formal training;   • i​ f they carry:  

.a
​ lifejacket or PFD that fits, for each crew member;  
• ​an official competition; or  
• ​final preparations for an official competition.   .a
​ sound-signalling device; and  

  .a
​ watertight flashlight if operated after sunset, before sunrise or in 
periods of restricted visibility.  
 
 
Some Useful Definitions    
 
Racing Pleasure Craft (other than Canoes, Kayaks and 
Formal training  
Practice for an official competition under the supervision of a coach or  Rowing Shells) Involved in Competition  
official certified by a governing body.    
  Racing-type boats do not have to carry the equipment listed in this guide if 
Official competition   they:  
Competition or regatta organized by a governing body or by a club or an  •a
​ re engaged in formal training, in an official competition or in final 
organization that is affiliated with a governing body.   preparation for an official competition;  
  •a
​ re operated under conditions of clear visibility;  
Final preparation for an official competition    •a
​ re attended by a safety craft; and  
Activities scheduled by the event organizer to prepare for the  •c
​ arry the safety equipment required by the rules of their sport’s 
competitions at the competition venue.   governing body.  
   
Safety craft    
Vessel, aircraft or other means of transport with a crew on board for  Sailboards or Kiteboards Involved in Competition  
watch and rescue activities during formal training, final preparation or   
official competitions.   Sailboards or kiteboards do not have to carry the equipment listed in this guide 
  if they are engaged in an official competition where an attending safety craft 
  carries lifejackets or PFDs that fit the sail/kite boarders and that can be put on 
Racing canoes, racing kayaks and rowing shells involved in competition   in the water (It is not recommended that lifejackets or PFDs be fitted with an 
Racing canoes, racing kayaks and rowing shells do not have to carry the  automatic inflator).   
equipment listed in this guide if they are in formal training, in an official  
Additional Suggested Items 

If you plan to be on the water for more than a few hours, you may want to store the following items on board:  

Spare clothing in a watertight bag  

Weather conditions can change quickly, so be prepared.  

Drinking water and snacks 

Drinking water and snacks will help you avoid fatigue and dehydration.  

Tool kit and spare parts  

You may need to make repairs when you are out on the water. 
Take along a tool kit and spare parts like fuses, bulbs, a spare 
propeller, nuts and bolts, penetrating oil, duct tape and spark 
plugs. You should also have and know how to use the tools and 
materials you need to seal hull leaks until you get to shore.  

Bring the owner’s manual and any other guidebook you might 
need on your trip.  

First aid  

When boating, you may end up far from medical help, so take a first 
aid kit with you. Store it in a dry place and replace used and 
outdated contents regularly. Pack it to meet your specific needs. 

Do you know the symptoms of cold shock, hypothermia, heat 

exhaustion and allergic reactions? Do you know how to perform 
CPR or treat shock? First aid knowledge can make the difference 
between permanent injury and full recovery, or even life and death. 
 

To learn more about first aid training, contact the nearest training provider. 

66 
67 
CHAPTER 4  

Checking the Weather    

Understanding weather is a key aspect of boating safety. The operator of a pleasure craft should check the 
weather forecast before making the decision to head out, to prevent putting the craft or its passengers at risk.  

You should also be aware of local factors (such as topography) that may affect the weather. Local people who 
are familiar with the area can be a good source of information for specific situations. Summer thunderstorms 
can strike quickly and without warning when you are navigating. Remember to keep an eye on the sky. If the sky 
starts to look dark and cloudy and conditions are changing rapidly, head for shore.  

Marine weather forecasts can be obtained in a number 

of ways, including from: 

● Personal observations; 
● Newspapers; 
● Marine Radio (VHF); 
● Environment Canada; 
● Regular am and fm radio weather forecasts;  
● Television weather channels. 

If you obtain a weather forecast from Environment Canada, be sure that you understand the following terms: 

● Light Winds​ - Are winds that are less than 12 knots (22 km/h). 
● Moderate Winds​ - Are winds that are in the range of 12 to 19 knots (22 to 35 km/h). 
● Strong Winds​ - Are sustained wind speeds in the range of 20 to 33 knots (36 to 61 km/h). 
● Small Craft Warnings -​ Are issued when strong winds (sustained wind speeds in the range of 20 to 33 
knots) or waves 3 to 6m are expected. 
● Gale Warnings ​- Are issued when sustained winds of 34 to 47 knots (62 to 86 km/h) are expected. 
● Storm Warnings​ - Are issued when sustained winds in the range of 48 to 63 knots (87 to117 km/h) or 
waves 9 to 16m are expected. 

REMEMBER: 1 Knot is equal to 1.85 km/h or 1.1 mph. 

   
68 
Storm Watch   

When you get to the water, make sure that the conditions you see match those predicted in weather forecasts 
for that day. Continue to keep an eye on the weather while you are underway, so you can take action and seek 
shelter before a storm arrives. 

Summer thunderstorms and lightning can strike quickly and unexpectedly. Head for shore if the sky starts to 
look dark and cloudy, especially if conditions are changing rapidly (check your charts in advance to know where 
to seek shelter). 

Other good indications of approaching bad weather are: 

● A falling barometer reading; 

● Increasing wind and wind direction change; 
● Rapid build-up of high wave conditions; 
● Bad weather tends to approach from the west (however, storms from the east tend to be more 
powerful); and 
● Watching the movement of other boaters and monitoring radio and weather channels frequently. 

REMEMBER: Head for shore if the sky starts to look dark and cloudy. 

   

69 
Caught in a Storm   

If you get caught out on the water in bad weather or you feel there is an approaching storm, take the following 
steps to prepare: 
 

● Ensure that all passengers are wearing a 

properly fitted lifejacket or PFD; 

● Slow down to ensure you can maintain 

control of your pleasure craft; 

● Always proceed with caution; 

● Stay alert and keep a sharp look out for 

approaching boats and debris in the water; 

● Prevent water from entering the boat by 

closing all hatches and ports; 

● Make sure all passengers are sitting low and near the centerline in the boat; 

● Secure loose gear but have emergency gear (anchor, bailers, and paddles) ready for use; 

● Head for the nearest marina that you can approach safely to take shelter, especially when there is 
lightning present; 

● If lightning is present, unplug all electrical items, remain low in the boat and away from metal objects; 

● If your engine fails; prevent the current from carrying your vessel into shallow water or onto rocks by 
dropping your anchor; 

● To keep smaller boats, such as kayaks, stable and prevent rolling in high waves, it is recommended to 
point the bow into the waves at a 90 degree angle; 

● To keep larger boats, such as a cabin cruiser, stable and prevent rolling in high waves it is 
recommended to point the bow of the boat into the waves at a 45 degree angle; and 

● Do not hesitate to contact a Coast Guard MCTS Center (i.e. VHF channel 16) if you become overcome 
by fog while operating near commercial traffic lanes. 

REMEMBER: After a storm with heavy rain, always proceed with caution. Heavy rain can cause water 
levels to rise in streams and rivers, which can lead to more debris on the water's surface. 

70 
Local Hazards   

Being prepared goes beyond ensuring that your boat 

is properly equipped and maintained.  

Before you travel in a new area, you should:  

● Check nautical charts for overhead 

obstacles, bridges and underwater cables in 
your boating area;  

● Read nautical charts with publications like 

Sailing Directions. Looking at tide tables and current atlases will also help you learn about water levels, 
times of low, slack and high tides, and the direction of water flow; 

● Stay away from swimming areas – even canoes and kayaks can injure swimmers; 

● Avoid boating too close to shore; and 

● Talk to local residents who know the waters if you are in an area that is not covered by marine charts. 
They may be able to point out low-head dams, rapids and white water, and describe local wind 
conditions, currents and areas of rapid high-wave build-up. 
 

Rapids  
Boaters should stay clear of rapids and strong currents if possible. Rapids have strong turbulent currents and 
can conceal rocks just below the surface. Rapids and fast flowing currents can: 

● Easily swamp a vessel and/or cause it to overturn; 

● Overpower the vessel - causing it to lose control; 
● Make difficult to recover a man overboard in an emergency; and 
● Easily result in personal injury or death. 

REMEMBER: Rapids have strong turbulent currents, can conceal rocks just below the surface, can easily 
swamp a vessel and/or cause it to overturn, can overpower the vessel - causing it to lose control, and can 
easily cause personal injury or death to a person in the water. 

71 
Trip Plan (Sail Plan)   

A trip plan, also referred to as a float plan or a sail plan, is a voyage 

itinerary that should include the departure time, travel route, 
duration of the trip, and basic details about your vessel. These 
details are necessary to assist search and rescue personnel in the 
event you do not return from your trip. 

Before heading out, all pleasure craft operators (especially vessels 

not equipped with a VHF radio) are encouraged to file a trip plan 
with a responsible and trusted person familiar with the instructions 
to follow in case of an emergency. If this is not possible, the trip 
plan can be filed with any Canadian Coast Guard Marine 
Communications and Traffic Services Center. 

If you are taking a long trip over several days, it is highly 

recommended that you file a daily position report (especially if you 
change your route). If you extend your trip, be sure to update the 
plan with the person with whom it is filed, to avoid that person initiating an unnecessary search and rescue. 

Always deactivate your trip plan by reporting that you have returned from your trip. This will prevent an 
unnecessary search from being launched. The person holding your trip plan should be instructed to contact 
the nearest Rescue Coordination Center if you are overdue.  

A good trip plan should include the following information: 

● Name and license number of your vessel; 

● Your vessel's type (i.e. whether it is a sailboat or power-driven); 
● Name, address, and telephone number of the operator; 
● Number of persons on board; 
● Size, type and colour of the craft; 
● Type of engine (i.e. inboard, outboard); 
● Distinguishing features of the vessel; 
● Type of marine radio, if any, and channel being monitored; 
● Safety equipment on board, including flares, lifejackets, and life rafts; 
● Description of the trip, including time of departure, time of return, proposed route, and destination; 
● Instructions in case of emergency. 

REMEMBER: Always deactivate your sail plan upon completion of a trip. 

72 
  

73 
Regular Inspections and Maintenance   
 

It is important for boat operators to remember that negligence of boat maintenance and inadequate 
preparation for boating trips can lead to unsafe boating experiences, resulting in injuries and loss of life.  

An inspection of your boat, its engine and all safety equipment on board should be performed at the beginning 
of the boating season each year, and also before leaving the dock on every boating trip. Boat owners must 
ensure that all the boat parts and equipment are fit for their intended purpose and safe to operate. 

Engine Maintenance 

● Change oil according to the owner's 

manual or at the start of each season;  

● Before each trip, check to ensure 

everything is working properly and nothing 
is loose or worn (i.e. belts, bolts and 
hoses); 

● Make sure to remove any corrosion or 

oxidation build-up on the engine and 
battery; and 

● Check and service your boat according to the owner manual or as needed. 

REMEMBER: The mechanical condition of a boat should be checked at the beginning of the boating 
season and before leaving the dock. 

 
 

   

74 
Unseaworthy Vessel   

It is an offence for an operator to knowingly operate or permit someone else to operate a vessel that is 
unseaworthy. Such an offence carries an imprisonment term of up to five years.  
 

REMEMBER: Charges can be laid under Criminal Code if a person knowingly operates an unseaworthy 
vessel and puts other people's lives in danger.  

 
 

Pleasure Craft Courtesy Check Program   

Transport Canada works with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons and 
other boating safety organizations to offer free courtesy checks for pleasure craft. 

If you agree to a courtesy check on your vessel, a trained 

boating safety volunteer will board your boat to: 

● Check out the safety equipment and other 

requirements; 
● Identify any problems; and  
● Discuss general boating safety issues. 
 

Education and prevention are the keys to this program. 

Since there are never any penalties involved, it’s a great opportunity to learn more about boating safety and 
make sure that you are ready to head out on the water.  

Visit Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety website for more information : 
https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/marine-safety/office-boating-safety 

REMEMBER: The main purpose of a Pleasure Craft Courtesy Check is to review all safety equipment with 
a knowledgeable expert.  

75 
Pre-departure Checklist   

You should always complete a pre-departure checklist of all 

required equipment and supplies prior to leaving the dock to 
ensure your boat is in good working order and properly equipped. 

Keeping in mind that it is illegal to operate a vessel that is not 

seaworthy. Always give the boat a quick once-over before 
departing; you never know what you might find that is in need of 
repair until you look! 

According to the Canadian Coast Guard, more than 50% of calls 

received by Canadian Rescue Coordination Centers are from 
boaters who are in trouble as a result of a mechanical failure of 
their boat. The most common cause of a breakdown is running 
out of fuel.  

REMEMBER: Completing a pre-departure checklist is a good way to make sure all the necessary safety 
equipment is on board. 

 
The One-Third Rule on Fuel Use 
 

It is always important to ensure you monitor your fuel supply and 

carry extra fuel. When operating a watercraft, always abide by the 
1/3 rule: use 1/3 of your fuel to get to your destination; keep 1/3 
of your fuel to get back to shore; and keep the other 1/3 as a 
reserve in case of emergency. 
 

REMEMBER: The basic guideline for estimating the amount of fuel needed for a trip is one-third for the 
trip out, one-third for the return trip and one-third as reserve. 

 
76 
  

77 
Safety Briefing   

Before taking passengers out on the water, the 

operator of a pleasure craft should also conduct 
a pre-departure briefing with all passengers to 
provide them with the required safety 
information and emergency procedures. 

The safety briefing should include: 

● The location of personal flotation 

devices (PFD’S) and/or lifejackets; 

● How to put on a personal flotation device or lifejacket; 

● A technique for putting on a personal flotation device or a lifejacket when in the water; 

● The importance of wearing personal flotation devices or lifejackets at all times; 

● The location of the emergency kit; 

● The location of fire fighting equipment and how to use it. 

● The importance of keeping oneself low in the boat, on the boat's centerline, and holding onto a rigid 
part of the boat while moving around on board; 

● The importance of keeping one's hands, arms, and legs inside the pleasure craft when approaching or 
leaving a dock; 

● The effects that the motion of the pleasure craft, sunlight, waves, wind, sound, and alcohol can have on 
a person's reflexes and senses;  

● The roles of all on board in the event of an emergency; and 

● The procedure for a man overboard (MOB) scenario. Someone on board needs to always keep an eye 
on the person in water during a man overboard scenario. 

REMEMBER: Make sure that at least one other person on board knows how to operate the boat in case 
something happens to you. 

78 
Overloading   

Most boating fatalities are the result of capsizing or 

falling overboard. Overloading, shifting of cargo, and 
passenger movement on smaller craft contribute to most 
of the capsizing or falls overboard. 

Too much weight will make your boat unstable and allow 
waves to come on board and swamp your boat. 

To avoid this, the operator of a pleasure craft should: 

● Not overload the craft in excess of the recommended gross load capacity or the equivalent maximum 
number of adult persons; 

● Position passengers and gear so as to distribute the weight evenly; 

● Keep the cargo’s center of gravity as low as possible on board the craft or stow it in lockers to prevent 
it from shifting; and 

● Be familiar with your craft’s limitations and handling. 

  

REMEMBER: The Gross Load Capacity of your vessel can be found on the vessels Compliance Label. 

 
 
Overloading is dangerous! The number of persons that can be carried safely depends on its type, the 
distribution of occupants, and the equipment carried. As the operator, you must obey the loading limits 
indicated on your vessel's capacity label. 

These are indicated as either the recommended gross load capacity or the equivalent number of adult persons. 
The maximum load on a compliance label refers to the total weight of persons, gear, equipment, supplies, fuel 
and motor assembly. Keep in mind that the maximum load is calculated for fair weather conditions and should 
be reduced for poor weather conditions. 

A vessel is less stable and more likely to capsize when it is overloaded or overpowered.  
 

REMEMBER: Small fishing boats that are loaded with lots of fishing gear and sit low in the water are at 
serious risk of being swamped by a wave. 

79 
Fuelling Procedures   

 
Gasoline fuel and fumes are extremely hazardous! Fuel and fumes need only a single spark to cause an 
explosion or to start a blaze. Spilled fuel is also extremely harmful to marine life. 

 
The following is a step-by-step guide that you should follow when refueling a boat: 

Before Fueling 

● Moor the boat securely; 

● Shut down all engines; 
● Ensure that all passengers are off the vessel 
during fueling; 
● Extinguish all open flames; 
● Do not smoke in the fueling area; 
● Switch off all electrical equipment; 
● Close all doors, windows, and ports; 
● Place your on board fire extinguisher within easy reach; and 
● Move all portable tanks ashore (never fuel a portable tank in the boat). 

During Fueling 

● Hold the fuel nozzle firmly against the boat’s filler pipe to prevent a build-up of static electricity; and 
● Know how much fuel your tank can hold and do not overfill it — you have a duty to prevent fuel spills.  

After Fueling 

● Clean up any spillage if necessary; 

● Open doors, hatches and ports;  
● Place your portable tanks back in the boat. All portable fuel tanks should be kept away from sparks 
and heat and stowed in a well-ventilated location; 
● Operate your vessel’s engine compartment blower for at ​least four (4) minutes i​ mmediately before 
starting up the engine (for inboard gasoline engine ony); 
● Check for vapours from the engine compartment before you start up the engine; and 
● Sniff for vapour odours in bilges and cabins. 

REMEMBER: You should always run the blower for at least 4

​ minutes b
​ efore starting an inboard engine. 

80 
Engine Start Up Procedure   

Before starting your engine it is important to carry out a series of check: 

 

● Check your fuel system for leaks;  

● Check fuel shut off switch/valves; 
● Check the flame arrester is clean, secure and undistorted; 
● Check your battery is fully charged, connectors are tight and water level is correct; 
● Check engine oil level is correct; 
● Check engine oil color and smell;  
● Sniff the air to check for fuel vapors and fumes (for gasoline engine); and 
● Run the engine compartment blower for at​ least four (4) minutes​ immediately before starting up the 
engine (for inboard gasoline engine ony). 

   

81 
Fuel-Burning Appliances   

The propane and butane often used in fuel-burning 

appliances on boats must be treated with utmost respect. 
These gases can be more dangerous than gasoline! 

Propane and butane, like gasoline vapors, are heavier than 

air and will spread rapidly into the lower parts of the boat. 
These gases are extremely difficult to remove and are 
highly explosive.  

To prevent accidents, always be sure to provide good 

ventilation when using a fuel-burning appliance. 
 

The following precautions should be taken when using fuel-burning appliances: 

● Use only in a well-ventilated area; 

● Secure in a manner that prevents fuel leaks; 
● Keep gas cylinders and tanks in a secure, well-ventilated area; and 
● Follow all manufacturers' instructions. 
 

While on a boat, you should check regularly the condition of any open-flame heating, cooking, or refrigeration 
system that uses gaseous fuel. Verify that the installation complies with the manufacturer's instructions. 

Ignition Protection    

Every boat that has a gasoline engine or uses propane 

devices must use ignition-protected electrical devices. 
These parts are designed so that, under normal 
conditions, they will not ignite gasoline or propane fumes 
or vapour. Only use electrical components that are clearly 
labelled as ignition protected. 

Many older boats, and even some new ones, have been 
fitted with converted car or truck engines. Car and boat 
engines are similar; car parts can and will work. However, 
if they are not of marine grade with ignition protection, 
they pose a risk for a potential explosion, serious injury or death. If you are not sure that your engine has 
ignition-protected parts, consult a marine mechanic. 

82 
RESPONDING TO EMERGENCY SITUATIONS 

Rendering Assistance   

 
All persons operating a pleasure craft in Canada, provided that he/she can do so without serious danger to 
his/her own craft and the persons on board, shall: 

● Render assistance to all persons who are found at sea and in danger of being lost; and 
● On receiving a distress signal, proceed with speed and render assistance. 
 

If you cannot assist, make sure you immediately notify the nearest boaters or authorities who can. 

83 
Emergency: Hull Leaks or Flooding   

While operating a pleasure craft, you may strike a 

submerged object (such as a rock or a dead head) hard 
enough to cause the hull of your craft to leak.  

The following set of actions should be taken in 

response to a hull leak or flooding (i.e. when water is 
seen to be rising in your pleasure craft or accumulating 
at the bottom of the craft): 
 

● If the boat is moving, bring it to a complete 

stop - this will reduce water pressure against the hull and, thus, the amount of water entering the hull; 

● Locate the source of the hull leak or flooding;  

● Stop the leakage or the source of flooding if possible - some items that can be used to stop or to slow 
a leak include tapered soft wooden plugs, rags, foam sponges, towels, or some other soft material; 

● Remove accumulations of water - water can be removed from the hold or other compartments of the 
pleasure craft by using either hand-held bailers, manual pumps, or bilge pumping systems as 
appropriate to the circumstances and the craft; 

● Use or exhibit signals to indicate distress and need of assistance if necessary; and 

● Ensure everyone is wearing a properly fitted lifejacket or PFD. 

Note: ​The tools and materials necessary to stop hull leaks should be kept on board. Also ensure that all 
required safety equipment is easily accessible.  

REMEMBER: If your boat springs a leak, you should: 1) locate the leak, 2) bail or pump, and 3) indicate 
distress. 

   

84 
Emergency: Mechanical Breakdown   

 
The following actions should be taken in the event of any 
breakdown during the operation of a pleasure craft: 
 

● Ensure everyone is wearing a properly fitted 

lifejacket or PFD; 
● Drop anchor if you have lost power and are 
drifting into a dangerous area; 
● Investigate the problem and rectify it if possible 
(check the your fuel levels, fuel line and dead man 
switch etc.); and  
● Use signals to indicate distress and need of assistance if necessary. 
 

REMEMBER: If your engine has broken down and you are drifting to a rocky shore, you should first drop 
anchor. 

 
 

   

85 
Emergency:​ Fires   

If you have a fire on board, make sure everyone is wearing a lifejacket and use extinguishers to control the fire. 
 

Follow the procedures below if there is a small fire:  

 

● Stop the engine if it is safe to do so under the weather conditions; 

● Position your boat so that the wind will blow the fire away from your boat; 

● Pull the pin out of the extinguisher and squeeze the two levers together;  

● Aim the extinguisher at the base of the flames from six feet away; and 

● Sweep the discharge nozzle from side to side, continuing for a few seconds after the flames are 
completely out.  

   

86 
Emergency: Collisions   

Collision Regulations​ state that every vessel shall take 

all measures necessary to determine if risk of 
collision exists, and shall take all measures necessary 
to avoid a collision. 

When there is a risk of collision, operators of both 

vessels are required to take whatever action is 
required to avoid contact, however if a collision is 
unavoidable you should reduce damage to ‘sensitive’ 
areas of both vessels. 

Note : E
​ very vessel should navigate at a speed that allows proper and effective action to avoid a collision. 

If you are involved in a boating accident you need to know what actions are required by law: 

● Stop your vessel; 

● Immediately ensure that everyone is accounted for and check for injuries. 
● Ensure that everyone is wearing a PFD or a lifejacket; 
● Identify yourself and your boat, exchange ID/contact details if required; 
● Provide assistance, if possible and warranted; 
● Keep a record of pertinent information with dates, time, and conditions;  
● Transmit distress call (i.e. VHF radio call or cellular phone) and/or visual signal if necessary; and 
● File an accident report with the local law enforcement authority. 

REMEMBER: Failure to stop at the scene of a collision is an offence which may result in imprisonment. 

   

87 
Emergency: Capsizing, Swamping, Sinking or Grounding   

The following actions should always be taken in the event that your craft should capsize, swamp, run aground, 
sink, or if you are involved in a collision: 

● Ensure that everyone on board is wearing a PFD or a lifejacket; 

● Stay with the craft when it is appropriate to do so; 
● Check that all on board are accounted for and safe; and 
● Use or exhibit signals to indicate distress and need of assistance as necessary. 

REMEMBER: Priority must be given to persons overboard. 

 
 

Capsizing  
 

Capsizing and falling overboard are the leading causes 

of boating fatalities. Overloading, shifting of loads, and 
passenger movement on smaller craft contribute to 
most of the capsizing/falls overboard accidents.  

Boat operators must take action to prevent themselves 

and others on board from falling overboard.  

If your boat capsizes but is in no danger of sinking, 

climb onto the overturned hull and signal for 
assistance. 

Removing yourself from the water will prolong your 

survival time in cold water and make you more visible to potential rescuers. Do not leave a floating vessel to 
swim to shore; the shore is always more difficult to reach than it appears. 

REMEMBER: If a boat capsizes in cold water, you should climb on top of the overturned boat and signal 
for help (do not swim to shore). 

   

88 
Grounding 

To free a vessel that has run aground, it may be 

necessary to move crew and equipment to one 
side to make the boat heel over.  

The boat may have to be lightened by moving 

equipment and people to another boat. If the 
boat is small, it may be possible for crew 
members in the water to push the boat off.  

 
 
Take the following action if you are operating a powered pleasure craft and it runs aground: 

● Stop the engine to assess the situation and check to see if anyone on board is injured; 

● If anyone is injured, call for assistance on VHF radio or cellular phone; 

● If there are no injuries and you are not in immediate danger, assess the situation and check for any 
damage to your boat's hull, and for leaks or flooding; 

● If yes – call for help as you may need to be towed to shore; 

● If there is no damage or signs of leaks or flooding, try to get your boat loose; 

● Shift the weight farthest away from point of impact/grounding; 

● Try to shove off from the bottom, rock or shoal; 

● If you cannot get loose or refloat, call for help on marine VHF radio or issue a distress call if necessary 
and consider a tow; 

● Ensure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket or PFD; and 

● If grounded on a reef or uncertain location, it may be prudent to stay grounded until help arrives. 

 
 

REMEMBER: The first step to take after running aground is to determine whether the passengers and the 
vessel are in danger. 

89 
Emergency: Falls Overboard     

Most boating fatalities are the result of drowning from falls overboard. This can be easily prevented by all 
boaters wearing their PFDs. 

If someone falls overboard, you must be able to locate and retrieve them quickly, even at night or in rough 
weather, and especially in cold water. Boat operators need to provide instructions to their passengers on how 
to assist in the quick recovery of a person overboard. 

 
The following procedure should be used if someone does fall overboard: 

● Sound the alarm immediately; 

● Slow down, stop if possible, and throw the person something buoyant to help stay afloat (it will serve 
as a marker if they become submerged); 

● Assign one person to keep sight of the person overboard and to continuously point at their location; 

● Manoeuver (carefully) to a position on the downwind side to recover the person (so that the person 
drifts toward the rescue vessel); 

● As soon as you are close enough, throw the victim a buoyant heaving line or a lifebuoy secured to your 
boat with a line. Always try to recover the person over the windward side of the boat; and 

● Be sure to turn off the propeller/engine on the vessel when retrieving from the stern. 

90 
Emergency: Propeller Strikes   

Boat engine propellers spin at very high speeds and have a lot of power. 
They will cause serious harm if you come in contact with one. Always 
operate your boat with caution to avoid any injuries from propellers; this is 
a common injury that can easily be avoided.  

A typical three blade propeller running at 3,200 rpm can inflict 160 
impacts in one second! 
 

 
To help reduce the risk of a propeller strike: 

● Turn off the engine when retrieving a person from the water; 

● People in the water may not be visible from the helm. Before starting your engine, walk around the boat 
and look in the water to make certain that no one is in the water near the boat; 

● Account for all your passengers prior to starting the engine; 

● Never allow passengers to board or exit your boat from the water when engines are on – or idling 
(your propeller may continue to spin); 

● Educate passengers about the location and danger of the propellers; 

● Be especially alert when operating in congested areas and never enter swimming zones; 

● Take extra precautions near boats that are towing skiers or inflatables; 

● Always secure a lanyard (kill line); and 

● Install a propeller cage or guard.  

   

91 
Emergency: Cold Water Immersion   

Capsizing and falling overboard into cold water (water temperature 

below 15°C) account for a high number of boating fatalities. Cold 
water can paralyze your muscles instantly.  

Always ensure : 

● Everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket or PFD, 

especially if boating in cold waters below 15°C; 
● You have a functioning communication device on board; 
● You are aware of situations that might lead to falling 
overboard to prevent them from happening (reaching 
overboard and improper loading). 

 
Boaters’ risk of dying increases with cold water temperatures, especially sports enthusiasts who hunt and fish 
from boats in cold weather. Exposure to low temperatures (such as cold water immersion or prolonged 
exposure to cold weather) will lead to hypothermia.  

Hypothermia​ is a drop in core body temperature below the normal level. It weakens a person's muscles, 
reduces coordination, and slows mental functions. Hypothermia can lead to death. 
 

Phases of Cold Water Immersion 

1-10-1 i​ s a simple way to remember the first three phases of cold water immersion and the approximate time 
each phase takes. 
 

● 1 Minute: Cold Water Shock​ - An initial deep and sudden gasp, followed by hyperventilation, muscle 
spasms and significant changes in heart rate and blood pressure. 

● 10 Minute: Cold Incapacitation​ - Over approximately the next 10 minutes, you will lose the effective 
use of your fingers, arms and legs for any meaningful movement. This will make it very difficult to 
swim (even for strong swimmers).The longer you remain in cold water, the harder it is to coordinate 
your movements. 

● 1 Hour: Hypothermia​ -​ Your body’s temperature dips below 36 degrees Celsius, and you will 
experience weak, irregular or absent pulse or respiration. In the final stage, the victim will lose 
consciousness. Even in ice water it could take approximately 1 hour before becoming unconscious. 

92 
Extend Your Survival Time 

To extend your survival time in water as much as possible, you must do everything you can to conserve energy 
and body heat. Wearing a PFD or lifejacket delays the onset of hypothermia. The PFD helps insulate the body. 
In addition, energy is lost trying to stay afloat without it.  

REMEMBER: Always wear a PFD or Lifejacket. Boaters often drown from cold incapacitation (swimming 
failure) long before hypothermia gets a chance to set in. 

While wearing a PFD or lifejacket, some positions can help persons overboard to survive longer in cold water: 

● If alone, climb onto a nearby floating object to get at least part of your body out of the water; 

● If you cannot get out of the water and you are alone, adopt the H
​ eat Escape Lessening Position 
(H.E.L.P.) ​by crossing your arms tightly across your chest and then drawing the knees up close; and 

● If you cannot get out of the water and you are in a group, h
​ uddle​ with the other persons by getting the 
sides of everyone's chest close together, with arms around the mid to lower back, and legs intertwined. 

If you have a warning that your boat may sink, protect yourself from the cold by wearing multiple light layers of 
dry clothing and a water- or wind-proof outer layer under a lifejacket or PFD.  

 
Extra protection from hypothermia includes:  

● Floater or survival suits (full nose-to-toes);  

● Dry suits (to be used with a lifejacket or PFD and a thermal liner);  
● Wet suits (to be used with a lifejacket or PFD – trap and heat water against the body); and  
● Immersion suits (to be used in extreme conditions when abandoning a vessel).  

93 
Treating Hyperthermia    

Exposure to low temperatures such as immersion in cold water will lead to hypothermia. Hypothermia can be 
categorised into 3 stages: ​Mild, Moderate​ a
​ nd Severe. 
 

Mild Hypothermia 
Mild symptoms: 

● Uncontrolled shivering; 
● Slurred speech; and 
● Conscious but withdrawn behaviour. 
 
If there is no way to get to a medical facility within 30 minutes, a mildly hypothermic person should be 
rewarmed by: 

● Shivering should be fueled by calorie replacement with fluids containing sugars. The sugar content is 
actually more important than the heat in warm liquids; 
● Ensuring that the person is capable of ingesting liquids without aspirating; 
● Not permitting alcohol and tobacco use, as these constrict blood flow; 
● Applying external heat to high heat transfer areas such as the underarms and chest sides; 
● Active heating of the skin is beneficial as it preserves energy and reduces cardiovascular stress; and 
● Avoiding rubbing or massaging the surface of the victim's body or extremities as this can send cool 
blood to the body's core and can damage nerve endings at the skin. 
 

Moderate and Severe Hypothermia 

This is a serious medical emergency requiring proper handling and treatment, and, in severe cases, immediate 
transport to a medical facility. 
 
Moderate symptoms: 

● Slow, weak pulse and respiration; 

● Lack of coordination; and 
● Confusion and fatigue. 
 
Severe symptoms: 

● Weak, irregular or absent pulse and respiration; and 

● Lack of consciousness. 

94 
Emergency: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning    

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a ​deadly​ gas that we can’t see, 

smell or taste.  

CO is produced from anything that burns a carbon-based 

fuel (gasoline, propane, charcoal, oil, etc.) such as engines, 
gas generators, cooking ranges, heaters. CO acts a lot like 
air. It doesn’t rise or fall but spreads evenly throughout an 
enclosed space. 

Carbon monoxide is acutely toxic because it cripples the 

ability of the body's blood to absorb and transfer oxygen to 
body cells, leading to asphyxiation or suffocation. 
Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or very short 
exposure to high concentrations can lead to death. 

Carbon monoxide poisoning should be taken very seriously.  

 
 
Do not confuse these symptoms as signs of seasickness or intoxication: 

● Headache; 
● Nausea; 
● Fatigue; 
● Facial Redness; 
● Irritated eyes; 
● Shortness of breath; and 
● Weakness or dizziness. 
 

Help protect yourself and others from CO poisoning: 

● Idle your engine only in well-ventilated areas. A tail wind can easily carry CO back on board; 
● Only heat the cabin or cook when in a well-ventilated area; 
● Make sure that cabin extensions and areas fitted with canvas tops are well-ventilated; 
● Use only fuel-burning engines or appliances that are certified or designed for marine use and make 
sure they are only used in well-ventilated areas; and 
● Use a marine-grade CO detector and check its batteries before every trip.   

95 
Carbon Monoxide​ ​.. Continued 
 
Be aware that CO can build up when: 

● Two vessels are tied to each other; 

● You are docked alongside a seawall; 
● Under swim ladders and between pontoons; 
● You are traveling at high speed with a high 
bow angle; 
● A fuel-burning appliance or engine is 
running while your vessel is not moving. 

If your boat has accommodations (houseboat, sailboat etc) and is fitted with an inboard engine, a generator, or 
a fuel-burning appliance, you should install a high-quality carbon monoxide detector close to where people will 
be sleeping. 

REMEMBER: Do not confuse carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms (headache, nausea and fatigue) with 
seasickness or intoxication.  

 
 

Treatment of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 

Carbon monoxide poisoning is reversible. When exposure to carbon monoxide is discontinued, the gas is 
spontaneously released from the blood. 
 

If a person experiences the symptoms of CO poisoning, it is very important that you : 

● Remove them from the areas where the gas may be present; 
● Investigate the source of carbon monoxide and correct it if possible; 
● Use or exhibit signals to indicate distress and need of assistance if necessary; and 
● Seek medical attention if necessary. In extreme cases, the person could be placed in hyperbaric 
oxygen therapy, which involves a full-body chamber that uses oxygen under pressure.  
 

Although a person exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning may look and behave as normal, they may in fact be 
subtly but seriously affected. Anyone who has had exposure to carbon monoxide should seek medical 
attention.   

96 
Carbon Monoxide : Swimming 
 

Carbon monoxide is not just a risk to boaters. Swimmers, too, can be overcome by breathing in CO and drown 
in just minutes!  

Carbon monoxide can build up near exhaust vents from inboard engines, outboard engines, and generators. 
Areas of high risk are under the back deck, swim platforms, or in between the pontoons on houseboats. Do not 
swim in these areas. Wait at least 15 minutes from when the motor or generator has been shut off before 
entering these areas. 

There have been known cases of drowning attributed to carbon monoxide where swimmers have come up for 
air at the point of an exhaust pipe on a vessel.  

REMEMBER: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a major drowning risk for swimmers. Areas of high risk are near 
exhaust vents, under swim platforms and between the pontoons of houseboats. 

 
 

97 
Emergency: ​Heat Stroke   

Heat stroke is a serious, life-threatening condition 

that occurs when the body loses its ability to 
control its temperature. Heat stroke is a true 
medical emergency that can be fatal if not properly 
and promptly treated. 

Victims must receive immediate treatment to avoid 

permanent organ damage. Cool the victim and seek 
medical advice immediately. 
 
 

Common symptoms: 

● High body temperature (above 40 degrees Celsius); 

● Flushed, hot skin (moist in initial stages, dry in later stages); 
● Dizziness, confusion, or hallucinations; 
● Elevated blood pressure (early stage); 
● Shortness of breath or hyperventilating; 
● Rapid pulse; 
● Seizures; 
● Unconsciousness or coma; and 
● Core body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius. 
 

To treat heat stroke, you need to : 

● Move the person to a shady area; 

● Remove clothing; 
● Apply cool or tepid water to the skin (or use spray bottle); 
● Fan the person to promote sweating and evaporation; 
● Place ice packs under the armpits and groin if possible; and 
● Monitor the body temperature until it drops to between 38.3 and 38.8°C (101 – 102 F); and 
● Seek medical advice by using a VHF marine radio or cell phone. 
 

REMEMBER: Persons suffering from heat stroke should always seek medical attention. 

98 
Emergency: ​Heat Exhaustion    
 

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body is unable to 

cool itself adequately. Usually this results from 
exercising in a hot, humid environment and is often 
brought on by dehydration.  

Caution should be taken when trying to nourish 

dehydration. It should not be done quickly. 
 

 
Symptoms include: 

● Heavy sweating; 
● Pale, cool, clammy skin; 
● Muscle cramps/spasms; 
● Dizziness or drowsiness 
● Nausea or vomiting; 
● Headache;  
● Elevated pulse; and  
● Elevated core body temperature (above 37 degrees Celsius). 

 
If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion: 

● Rehydrate the person with cool water, milk, soup or sports drinks. Caution should be taken if they are 
diabetic; 
● Ensure they are in a cool area out of direct sunlight; 
● Loosen or remove clothing; 
● Apply a cool compress to skin; 
● Avoid giving alcohol or caffeinated beverages; and 
● Seek medical advice by using a VHF marine radio or cell phone. 
 

REMEMBER: It is recommended that all boaters have first aid training for all medical situations. 

   

99 
Emergency: Seasickness 

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness characterized 

by a feeling of nausea and, in extreme cases, vertigo.  

It is typically brought on by the rocking motion of the 

vessel on the water. When at sea, our ears tell us that we 
are moving, however our sight (when focused on 
something) suggests that we are stationary. 

Some people are more vulnerable to seasickness, while 

others seem to be immune. 

Common symptoms include: 

● Headache; 
● Nausea and vomiting; 
● Vertigo; 
● Pale, cool, moist skin; 
● Weakness or dizziness; 
● Cold sweat; and 
● Increased saliva. 

 
You can take the following steps to help minimize the symptoms of seasickness: 

● Consume over the counter prescription medications and ginger tablets for motion sickness, which are 
considered effective in preventing motion sickness. Though effective, drugs are not without potential 
side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth; 

● Stay cool and wear a hat, as heat and sun exposure can intensify the effects of seasickness; and 

● Move to the boat’s center of gravity, which may eliminate some of the motion. 

Seasickness generally diminishes with time as the body’s inner ear balance system gets used to the moving 
and rocking motion of the vessel. Seasickness is not a life threatening disease, and once the person is back on 
solid ground, it will go away quickly.   

100 
Emergency: Operator Fatigue   

Operator fatigue can be caused when a boater has been on the water for a long period of time, exposed to the 
sun and/or the motion of the boat. The operator may find it hard to keep a proper lookout and react slower in 
situations when fatigued. 

Physical exercise such as tubing, water-skiing or operating a PWC will increase the rate at which fatigue sets in. 
The consumption of alcohol or lack of fluid intake, especially water, will also increase the rate that fatigue sets 
in.  
 

Many causes of fatigue can be treated with rest. To keep safe, always take turns at the helm while boating and 
keep well hydrated. 

101 
102 
CHAPTER 5 

Proper Lookout   

There are many distractions on the water at any given time. As an operator it is important to constantly keep a 
proper lookout and share the waterways with common sense, care and attention. 

 
Collision Regulation (Rule 5)​ states that all operators 
of a pleasure craft shall at all times : 

● Maintain a constant look-out for potential 

collision hazards; 

● Use sight and hearing to detect and avoid any 

risk of collision with another vessel; 

● Use any available means including sight, 

hearing, (radar and radio, if applicable) to 
make a full appraisal of whether a collision risk exists; 

● Listen for sound signals from other vessels; and 

● Watch for signals that indicate distress and need of assistance. 

You should assign another person on board to act as a lookout at all times when a vessel is underway.  
 

REMEMBER: Every vessel should maintain a proper lookout by using sight, hearing and all other 
appropriate means (including radar, radio etc. if available). 

  

   

103 
Safe Speed   

Collision Regulation (Rule 6)​ states that al​l boaters 

must operate at a safe speed at all times in order to 
avoid collision and/or adversely affecting any other 
vessel (i.e. dredging, towing, kayaking etc.).  

A safe speed is a speed that allows the operator 

enough time to take proper and effective action to 
avoid a collision. The faster a boat travels, the greater 
the distance required for it to stop, and the less time 
available for the operator to react to a change in 
conditions.  

Be very careful when boating where visibility is poor, such as when entering or exiting a fog bank.  

According to the ​Collision Regulations​, to determine the safe speed for your vessel, you should take into 
account all of the following factors: 

● Your ability to see ahead – slow is the only safe speed in fog, mist, rain and darkness;  
● Current, wind, and water conditions;  
● How quickly your boat can change direction;  
● How many and what types of vessels are near you; and  
● The presence of navigational hazards such as rocks and tree stumps. 

 
 

REMEMBER: All boats must be operated at a safe speed at all times in order to avoid collision. 

   

104 
Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations     

The V
​ essel Operation Restriction Regulations (VORR)​ regulate the 
operation of small vessels on specific bodies of water in Canada.  

 
These regulations may : 

● Impose shoreline speed zones (both posted and unposted); 

● Restrict the maximum horsepower on powerboats; and 
● Prohibit certain types of vessels from a body of water.  

For instance, a body of water may be restricted to only non-powered boats, 

such as canoes and sailboats. It is the operator’s responsibility to be familiar with the waterways in which they 
boat and know the location of these restrictions (posted and unposted) and follow them. 

Some provinces have adopted speed limits of 10 km/h within 30m of the shoreline. This speed limit applies in 
Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and the inland waters of British Columbia and Nova Scotia. This limit 
is in effect whether it is posted or not.  

 
Exceptions include: 

● Water skiing, where the towboat follows a course perpendicular to the shoreline when leaving or 
returning; 
● Where buoys designate that another speed is permitted; 
● In rivers less than 100m wide; and 
● In waters where the regulations prescribe another speed limit. 

 
  

REMEMBER: The maximum speed within 30 meters of shore in most Canadaian Provinces is 10km/h. 

  

   

105 
Restriction Signs     

 
Boaters should always be on the lookout for boating restriction signs. Failing to comply with a restriction 
(either posted or unposted) can result in substantial fines for the operator. 

Vessel operation restriction signs may be green and orange or just orange in colour. The symbol on the sign 
indicates the type of restriction that applies. The signs come in five shapes, and the restriction applies in the 
direction indicated by the arrow. Signs that include the colour green contain special instructions such as time 
of day that the restriction applies to.  

 
Some boating restriction signs include: 

106 
Rules of the Road     
 

The C
​ ollision Regulations s
​ et out right-of-way rules, often referred to as the ​“rules of the road”​, to help boaters 
determine who has the right of way; that is, which vessel maintains its course and speed (referred to as the 
stand-on vessel), and which vessel gives way (termed the give-way vessel). 

This is not just a way to be polite – it is the law, which applies to every vessel on all navigable waterways – 
from canoes to supertankers. All vessel operators are obligated to take all necessary steps to avoid a collision. 
Know the “rules of the road” and boat by them! 

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, imprisonment, or both. 
 

REMEMBER: Boats in constant motion will meet quickly, so take early and substantial action to avoid 
collisions. 

Definitions Relevant to Navigation Rules 

Stand-on vessel​ (B) is the vessel that maintains course 

while keeping a lookout to be sure that the other boat 
gives way. 

If it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not 

altering course, then the stand-on vessel must take early 
and substantial action to avoid collision.  

Give-way vessel​ (A) is the vessel that is required to keep 

out of the way of another vessel. Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the 
circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or 
by radar. A succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided. 

  

REMEMBER: A give-way vessel is required by law to give early and substantial action to keep clear of a 
stand on vessel. Small alterations should be avoided. 

    

107 
Rules of the Road .. Continued 

.  
To understand how the ​Collision Regulations​ work, think of the 
space around a vessel as being divided into three Sectors: 

● Port​ Sector. 
● Starboard​ Sector. 
● Stern Sector. 

 
 

REMEMBER: A sailboat propelled by an engine is classified as a power driven vessel. A sailboat with a 
motor but navigating under sail is not classified as a power driven vessel. 

   

108 
Right of Way Rules   

If a power-driven vessel (A) approaches your powered vessel (B) in 

your port sector, maintain your course and speed with caution and 
be ready to take evasive action quickly if the approaching vessel 
does not take action to stay clear of you. 

If a power-driven boat (A) approaches your power-driven vessel 

(B) from directly in front of you, then you should deliver one 
short-blast sound signal and alter your course to starboard so that 
your vessel passes the approaching vessel on your port side. 

If any vessel (A) approaches your vessel (B) from within your stern 
sector (behind you), maintain your course and speed with caution. 
Any vessel overtaking another must take early and substantial 
action to keep well clear of the vessel being overtaken. This rule 
applies to both powered vessels and sailing vessels. 

If your power-driven vessel (A) is on a crossing course with either 

a sailboat (B) or a vessel that is fishing with nets or trawls, you 
must take substantial action (alter your course and speed) to keep 
well clear of the other vessel. (Note: sailing vessels must take 
early and substantial action to keep clear of vessels fishing with 
nets or trawls. Just because a commercial fishing vessel with 
nets or trawls is a powered vessel does not mean that the sailboat 
has the right of way).  

 
As a general rule, rowboats, sailing vessels, and canoes are less manoeuvrable and therefore have the 
right-of-way over power-driven boats. However, if one vessel is unable to manoeuvre as it normally would, the 
most manoeuvrable vessel gives way. 

REMEMBER: When overtaking another vessel you should take early and substantial action to steer well 
clear of the vessel being overtaken. 

   

109 
Operating near large vessels   

According to the Canadian C

​ ollision Regulations​, any 
vessel not under command (NUC), or vessel 
restricted in its ability to manoeuvre (RAM) - 
including fishing vessels, sailboats, paddle craft, 
canoes, and kayaks - has the right of way over 
power-driven vessels unless it is overtaking the 
power-driven vessel.  

Thus, a vessel towing a barge or a vessel that is 

fishing (with its gear out) is restricted in its ability to 
maneuver and therefore has right of way over 
vessels under power; sailboats; and human-powered craft.  

 
 

Vessel Right Of Way Hierarchy 

● Vessel Not Under Command (NUC), not making way (i.e. a vessel engaged in a diving operations, or a 
vessel with a mechanical problem);  
● Vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre (the nature of her work restricts her ability to move) i.e. a 
vessel towing or pushing a barge;  
● Vessel engaged in fishing (with trawls or nets);  
● Sailing vessels; and  
● Power vessel. 

 
As shown in the hierarchy above, power vessels must stay clear of A
​ LL​ other vessels.  

 
Always keep clear of large vessels such as commercial vessels and vessels displaying NUC and RAM lights or 
shapes. These larger vessels take a long time to adjust course and speed. Respect their space, give them a 
wide berth and do not create another crossing situation. 
 

REMEMBER: A sailboat must keep clear when on a collision course with a fishing boat hauling its nets.  

    

110 
Ferries  
Keep clear of docked ferries, ferries in transit, or 
vessels in tow. Exercise extreme caution near cable 
ferries as there is a submerged cable at the front 
and back of the ferry. Large ships departing the 
dock will sound one prolonged blast on their horn to 
indicate they are departing. 

REMEMBER: A pleasure boat must keep clear 

when meeting a ferry or a towing vessel. 

  

Tug Boats  
Stay clear of tug and tow operations and never pass 
between a tug and its tow. There are submerged tow 
lines that can hang underneath the water’s surface, 
making it very difficult to see.  

Attempting to pass between a tug and its tow could 

result in your vessel hitting the hidden line, causing 
injury or death. Many towed objects will also have a 
long trailing line behind them. Give the tug and its 
tow plenty of space in every direction.  
 

REMEMBER: You should never pass between a tug and its tow. 

 
 
 

Seaplanes 
Watch for aircraft when you are out on the water and give plenty of space to any aircraft that is landing or 
taking off from the water.  

 
 

111 
Shipping Lanes    

Shipping lanes are used by large commercial vessels. 

These vessels have limited visibility from the bridge 
(steering position) and may not be able to see or 
avoid smaller pleasure craft. They cannot quickly turn 
or stop, so they require more sea room. 

Pleasure craft should exercise extreme caution when 

transiting near busy commercial shipping/traffic 
lanes. 

Power driven vessels under 20m in length, including 

sail boats, are to steer clear and avoid shipping lanes 
whenever possible. If you must cross a shipping lane, do so at a 90-degree angle, and only when it is safe to do 
so. 
 

REMEMBER: Operators of small recreational boats should stay in groups if possible when navigating in or 
near a shipping lane to increase their visibility. 

 
 
 

Narrow Channels   

In narrow channels, a smaller vessel, even if it is the stand-on vessel, must give way to large vessels. Large 
vessels are less maneuverable and have restricted visibility; therefore pleasure craft should stay clear of them.  

Additionally, if two vessels meet in a narrow channel where tide or river flow creates dangerous currents, the 
vessel that is moving down river automatically has the right of way. 

When in a narrow channel, vessels must keep as near as is safe and practical to the o
​ uter limit of a narrow 
channel on their starboard side​. Never anchor in a narrow channel unless you are in real danger or have broken 
down. 
 

REMEMBER: When in a narrow channel, stay as far to the starboard side of the channel as is safe. 

  

112 
Boat Manoeuvrability    

Boat operators should take into account their own experience operating a boat and the limitations of the boat 
they are operating. 

The maneuverability of any vessel will depend on many factors such as the size of the boat relative to the 
power of the motor and/or whether not one or two propellers are used. 

 
Docking and mooring of boats in marinas or on boat ramps can lead to property damage and injury. Take extra 
care and proceed slowly when docking or mooring, especially in adverse weather conditions. ​Docking 
techniques, including the use of lines and fenders, vary depending on wind, current, location, degree of boat 
traffic in the harbor, type of boat, size of boat, and skills/abilities of the boater and crew. 

REMEMBER: Boats don't have brakes. If you need to reduce speed quickly you should put the motor into 
reverse while applying power. Make sure you practise this in case of an emergency. 

113 
Aids to Navigation   

Aids to Navigation are devices or systems that are external to a vessel. Aids to Navigation can include buoys, 
day beacons, range markers, and lighthouses. They are to boaters what road signs are to drivers. 

Aids to Navigation are provided to : 

 

● Help the operator determine position and course; 

● Warn of dangers or obstructions, or  
● Indicate the location of the safest or preferred route. 
 

REMEMBER: It is important to be thoroughly familiar with the aids to navigation in your region.  

 
 

114 
Lateral Buoy System 
 

Lateral buoys indicate safe routes by marking the left and right sides of the deepest water. There are two main 
types of lateral buoys: port-hand buoys and starboard-hand buoys. 

 
Port-hand​ buoys: 

● Are green in colour;  

● Are used to mark a danger or the left-hand side of a channel 
(when facing upstream);  
● Should always be kept on the port side of the vessel when 
traveling upstream;  
● May have a single green cylinder shaped topmark;  
● May have a light that is green in colour;  
● Are flat on top, if they do not carry a light; and  
● Are identified by letters and odd-digit numbers. 
 

REMEMBER: The upstream direction is the direction taken by a vessel when proceeding from seaward, 
toward the headwater of a river, into a harbor or with the flood tide. In lakes and rivers where this is 
difficult to determine, the use of cardinal buoys are preferred.  

Starboard-hand b
​ uoys: 

● Are red in colour; 

● Are used to mark a danger or the right-hand side of a 
channel (when facing upstream);  
● Should always be kept on the starboard side of the vessel 
when traveling upstream;  
● May have a single single red cone shaped topmark 
pointing upward;  
● May have a light that is red in colour;  
● Have a pointed top, if they do not carry a light; and 
● Are identified by letters and even-digit numbers. 

115 
Red to the Right when Returning 

Red buoys must be kept on the right side of a craft when 

proceeding in the upstream direction. 

Here’s a simple way to help remember these rules: think of 

three R’s… ​Red to the Right when Returning. 

Bifurcation Buoys 

A bifurcation buoy is used to mark the point where a 

channel divides. 

You may pass buoys with red and green bands on either 
side in the upstream direction. The main or preferred 
channel, however, is shown by the colour of the top-most 
band. For example, if a green band is on top, then you 
should keep the buoy on your port (left) side. 

   

116 
Special Buoys  
 

Special buoys serve a variety of purposes. The shapes of special purpose buoys have no significance. They are 
identified by their symbols, drawings, and colours. 

  

Cautionary Buoy​ - Is a yellow-colored buoy that marks traffic separations as well as 
dangers such as firing ranges, underwater pipelines, race courses, seaplane bases, 
underwater structures, and areas where no through channel exists.  
 

 
Anchorage Buoy​ - Marks the perimeter of designated anchorage areas. It is a yellow 
buoy with black anchor symbol. One should consult the chart for ​anchorage depths to 
ensure the anchorage can accept your vessel's draft. 
 

 
 

Mooring Buoy​ - Is used for mooring or securing vessels. Be aware that another 
vessel may be secured to this type of buoy. Remember, it is illegal to obstruct or tie 
up to any aid to navigation except for a mooring buoy.  
 

 
 

Information Buoy​ - Displays by means of words or symbols information such as locality,  a 

marina, or campsite. This type of buoy is white in colour and displays information within  a 
hollow orange square with two horizontal orange bands, one above the square and one 
below. 
 

 
 

Hazard Buoy​ - Marks random hazards such as rocks and shoals. This type of buoy is 
white in colour and is marked with an orange diamond with two horizontal orange 
bands, one above the diamond and one below. Information concerning the hazard is 
indicated by a black symbol displayed inside the orange diamond.  

117 
 
Control Buoy​ - Marks an area where a restriction has been placed on boating. The 
restriction may be a speed limit or a wake and wash restriction. This type of buoy is 
white in colour and has a hollow orange circle with two horizontal orange bands, one 
above the circle and one below. A black symbol displayed inside the orange circle 
indicates the type of restriction that is in effect. 
 

  
 

Keep-Out Buoy​ - Marks an area in which boats are prohibited. It is white in colour and 
is marked with an orange diamond, the interior points of which are joined by an orange 
cross. It also has two orange, horizontal bands, one above and one below the 
diamond-shaped symbol.  
 

 
 

Isolated Danger Buoy​ - Is used to mark an isolated danger such as a rock, 

shoal, or a wreck. The buoy is moored on or above the danger and has navigable 
water all around it. To be safe, stay well away from this type of buoy. Consult the 
chart for information concerning the danger (dimensions, depth, etc). This buoy 
is black with a red band, and two black spherical top marks. 
 

 
 

Fairway Buoy​ - Is used to mark safe water and is usually used to mark a 
channel entrance, the center of a shipping channel, or a landfall. This 
buoy indicates that there is safe water to pass on either side but it 
should be kept to the port (left) side of your vessel when proceeding 
upstream or downstream. It is painted half in red and half in white. 
 

 
 

Scientific Buoy​ - Is also called an ODAS buoy (for ocean data acquisition system), 
and collects meteorological and other scientific data. The hazard represented is the 
buoy itself. 
 

118 
 

Swimming Buoy - ​Is used to mark the perimeter of a swimming area. It is 
white in colour and carries no markings.  

Diving Buoy​ - Is used to mark areas where scuba or other diving is in progress. 
This buoy is white in colour. It carries a red flag not less than 50 cm squared with 
a white diagonal stripe extending from the tip of the hoist to the bottom of the 
fly. 

 
 
Diving Flag   

Special care must be taken when boating in waters 

where there are divers. All pleasure craft operators 
should be sure that they know what a "diver down" 
flag looks like. 

If a vessel is engaged in a diving operation, it must 

indicate that it has a diver down by displaying the 
blue and white International Code Flag "A"​, which 
means "I have a diver down: keep well clear and 
proceed at slow speed”. 

Keep in mind that it is easy for divers to stray from 

the area marked by a diving buoy. When you see a 
diving flag, give divers plenty of room by keeping your boat at least 100m (328”) from the flag. If you cannot 
stay that far away because of the size of the waterway, slow down as much as possible, move ahead with 
caution, and keep clear of the vessel and diving site.  

119 
Day Beacons   

Day beacons are usually fixed aids, meaning that they are erected either on land or on a pole or structure 
permanently erected in water. Day beacons are so named because they are unlighted and, thus, they are visible 
only during daylight hours. 
 
 

Port-Hand Day Beacon​ - Is a fixed aid that marks the port (left) side of a channel 
or the location of a danger and must be kept on the vessel's port side when 
proceeding upstream or into a harbour. It is marked with a black or green coloured 
square centered on a white background surrounded by a square-shaped green 
reflecting border. 
 

 
 

Starboard-Hand Day Beacon - I​ s a fixed aid that marks the starboard (right) side 
of a channel or the location of a danger and must be kept on the vessel's starboard 
side when proceeding upstream or into a harbour. It is marked with a red coloured 
triangle centered on a white background surrounded by a triangle-shaped red 
reflecting border. 
 

 
 

 
Port-Junction (Bifurcation) Day Beacon​ - Marks a point where a channel divides. 
This beacon may be safely passed on either side. If the preferred or main channel 
is desired, then this day beacon should be kept on the port (left) side of the boat. 
 

 
Starboard-Junction (Bifurcation) Day Beacon​ - Marks a point where a channel 
divides. This beacon may be safely passed on either side. If the preferred or main 
channel is desired, then this day beacon should be kept on the starboard (right) 
side of the boat. 

   

120 
Cardinal Buoys    

 
Cardinal buoys indicate a hazard by reference to the four cardinal directions (points) of the compass: north, 
east, west, and south. A cardinal buoy indicates that the safest water exists in the direction indicated by the 
cardinal point (direction) represented by the buoy. They can be in the form of buoys or fixed aids, but are 
predominantly buoys in Canada. 

 
 
North Cardinal Buoy​ - Is positioned so that the 
safest water lies to the north. The top half of the 
visible portion is black and the bottom half is yellow. 
If present, the top mark is two stacked cones, black 
in colour, both pointing up. If the buoy does not carry 
a light, it is normally spar (tall and thin) shaped. 

 
South Cardinal Buoy​ - Is positioned so that the 
safest water lies to the south. The top half is yellow 
and the bottom half is black. If present, the top mark 
is two stacked cones, black in colour, both pointing 
down. If the buoy does not carry a light, it is normally 
spar shaped. 

 
East Cardinal Buoy​ - Is positioned so that the 
safest water lies to the east. This buoy is black in 
colour except for a broad horizontal yellow band around its midsection. Its top mark consists of two stacked 
black cones; the top one pointing up, the bottom one pointing down. If the buoy does not carry a light, it is 
normally spar shaped. 

 
West Cardinal Buoy​ - ​ Is positioned so that the safest water is located to the west. This buoy is yellow in 
colour except for a broad horizontal black band around its midsection. Its top mark consists of two stacked 
black cones; the top one pointing down, the bottom one pointing up. If the buoy does not carry a light, it is 
normally spar shaped. 
 

   

121 
Interfering with Aids to Navigation  

It is a​ criminal offence​ to interfere with Aids to Navigation, such as: 

● Mooring the vessel to a buoy or other sea-mark used for navigation; or 
● Wilfully altering, relocating, removing or concealing a buoy or other sea-mark. 

REMEMBER: An operator of a pleasure craft can NEVER moor his vessel to a buoy or other sea-mark that 
is used for the purposes of navigation. 

   

122 
Operating Responsibly    

 
As an operator of a pleasure craft, you should take the 
following actions when sharing the waterways with 
others:  

● Stay well clear of swimmers and swimming 

areas;  

● Stay clear of properties; 

● Adjust the speed of your pleasure craft so 

that the wake and wash created by your 
pleasure craft will not disturb others (such as 
swimmers and water-skiers), erode shorelines, disturb wildlife (such as nesting waterfowl), or damage 
property; 

● Be aware of other smaller vessels around you, such as canoes, rowboats and kayaks, as waves 
produced from larger vessels can swamp these craft. Adjust your trim and reduce your wake; 

● Follow the ​Collision Regulations​ requirements regarding maintaining a safe speed depending on 
visibility and water conditions; and 

● Use common sense so as not to create a hazard, a threat, a stress, or an irritant to others or to the 
environment. 

 
You are always responsible for the wake and wash created by your vessel.  

You must at all times proceed with caution and at a speed such that wake and wash will not damage or 
adversely affect: other vessels, the shoreline, swimmers or divers and anchorage areas. This is especially true 
when rescuing someone who has fallen overboard, as the last thing you want to do is make the situation worse 
by having your wake wash over them.  

REMEMBER: When operating a boat near anchored vessels, rowboats, swimmers, docks, floats and 
shorelines, adjust your speed to avoid damage due to wake and wash. 

   

123 
Careless Operation    

No person shall operate a vessel in a careless manner, 

without due care and attention or without reasonable 
consideration for other persons. Doing so could be a 
fineable offense under the Contraventions Act. 

 
Examples of careless operation include: 

● Jumping the waves of another vessel at an 

unreasonably close distance; 
● Weaving through congested traffic at more 
than a slow speed; 
● Swerving at the last possible moment (i.e. playing chicken ); and 
● Operating a boat at a speed higher than necessary to maintain steerageway when near swimmers, 
non-powered vessels or cautionary buoys. 

REMEMBER: If swimmers are in the waterways, the boat operator should stay well clear of swimmers and 
swimming areas. 

 
 

Dangerous Driving 

Operating a vessel in a dangerous manner is not only unsafe; it is illegal. Under the Criminal code, dangerous 
driving offences that result in bodily harm or death can result in imprisonment of 10 years or more. 

REMEMBER: Under the Criminal code of Canada, operating a boat at high speed near swimmers classifies 
as dangerous operation of a vessel. 

 
124 
Towing a Water Skier   

Under the S
​ mall Vessel Regulations​, the rules governing water-skiing also apply to other towing activities such 
as barefoot skiing, tubing, kneeboarding, wakeboarding, and parasailing. 

A boat operator must ensure that someone on board, other than the boat operator, is watching the person(s) 
being towed at all times (i.e. spotter). Towing a skier without a spotter on board is illegal. 

 
The regulations also require the following: 

● There must be a seat available for each person being towed (i.e. operator, spotter, person being 
towed); 
● Towing activities are not allowed from one hour after sunset until sunrise; 
● Towing activities are not allowed during periods of restricted visibility; and 
● A vessel towing water skiers or others cannot be remotely controlled. 

REMEMBER: If water skiing from a PWC, the PWC must be designed and recommended by the 
manufacturer to accommodate three persons (the operator, the observer, and the person being towed). 

   

125 
Operating a Personal Watercraft (PWC) 

Safe use of a Personal Watercraft (PWC) requires skill 

and experience. PWC operators must be at least 16 
years old and have proof of competency and proof of 
age on board.  

Before you let someone borrow your PWC, you must 

make sure that they know how to operate it safely and 
responsibly.  

 
 
Here are some other basic tips:  

● Always wear a Canadian-approved lifejacket or PFD (inflatable PFDs are not allowed). Choose a bright 
color for better visibility;  

● Wear thermal protection when operating in cold water (water colder than 15°C); 

● Read the owner’s manual before setting out;  

● Attach the engine shut-off line (kill chord) securely to your wrist or lifejacket or PFD;  

● Respect speed limits and other vessel operation restrictions; 

● Be cautious, courteous and respect your neighbours. Many people dislike the noise a PWC makes 
when it is operated for long periods of time at high speed in one place, especially when it is used to 
jump waves;  

● Be aware of the impact your PWC can have on the environment. Avoid high speeds near shore; 

● Stay alert! At high speeds, it is hard to see swimmers, water skiers, divers and other PWCs in time to 
avoid them;  

● Do not operate your PWC after dark or when visibility is poor;  

● Make sure your PWC is properly licensed and marked; and 

● Do not start your PWC if you smell gasoline or fumes in the engine compartment. Have a qualified 
technician check it.  

REMEMBER: Inflatable PFDs are not allowed to be used on a personal watercraft. 

126 
Whale Safety   

If you are operating your vessel in areas close to whale sightings or where whales may migrate, you must: 
 

● Maintain your watch as a boat operator at all times; 

● Be aware that whales can surface unexpectedly and may be unaware of boats; 

● Keep a look-out at all times for blows, go slow if you see one; and 

● Stay clear of whales by providing them with lots of space. Stay at least 200m away. 

Note:​ The distance of 200m is the equivalent to approximately two (2) American Football fields. 
 

REMEMBER: Stay clear of whales by providing them with lots of space. Stay at least 200m away. 

127 
Engine Noise Levels   

All boat operators are responsible for their boat's noise.  

 
To prevent excessive or unusual noise, no person shall 
operate a power-driven vessel other than a stock 
(unmodified) outboard engine, within five nautical miles 
(9.26 km) of shore unless it is equipped with a muffler 
system that is in good working order. 

 
This restriction does not apply if the boat: 

● Was built or constructed before 1960;  

● Is used in a formal race or training exercise; 
● Directs the exhaust gases under water through the propeller hub or below the cavitation plate; 
● Is propelled by gas turbines or by an aircraft-type propeller operating in air; or 
● Is operated at five or more nautical miles (9.26 km) from shore. 

REMEMBER: Most powerboats require a muffler in good working order and it must be used within five (5) 
nautical miles offshore. 

    

128 
Enforcement On The Water   

 
Safety is a shared responsibility of Canadian waterway 
users and the organizations that govern them.  

Boaters must operate their boats safely. This means you 

must learn and follow the rules that apply to your boat as 
well as to the waters where you will be boating.  

An enforcement officer may inspect your boat and 

monitor your boating activities to make sure you meet the 
requirements that apply. An enforcement officer may also 
direct or prohibit vessel movement in the interest of 
public safety. An operator may face fines and/or imprisonment if they fail or refuse to stop and comply with 
law enforcement requests. 

 
Enforcement officers may: 

● Ask for ID; 

● Ask for proof of competency (PCOC); 
● Ask any pertinent questions; 
● Board your vessel; and 
● Examine a vessel and its equipment. 
 

A enforcement officer can be:   

● A member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP);   

● A member of the harbor or river police;   
● A member of provincial, county or municipal police force; and 
● Any person designated by Transport Canada. 

Carry Your Documents  

When heading out in your motorized boat, make sure to bring on board:  

● Proof of competency;  
● Personal identification; and 
● Pleasure craft licence (for 10hp or more). 

129 
Drugs and Alcohol   

 
The consumption of alcohol, drugs, or other controlled substances 
can rapidly and significantly impair a person's ability to operate a 
boat. 

Just as with automobiles, never hitch a ride with a boat operator who 
is impaired; instead, take action to prevent the impaired person from 
operating a vessel. 

 
More than ​40%​ of boating deaths are caused by alcohol and/or drug 
consumption. It is unknown how many near-misses and injuries 
occur from operators under the influence of alcohol and drugs that 
impair judgment and take away all common sense.  

Alcohol intensifies the effect of fatigue, sun, wind, and boat motion to adversely affect balance, judgment and 
reaction time. Even one drink will affect you, so please leave the booze out of the boat. 

 
Operating a boat while impaired is illegal and punishable under the Criminal Code. Operating a boat (with or 
without a motor) is subject to the same laws which apply to driving a motor vehicle. Laws regarding 
transporting or consuming alcohol vary from province to province. For more information on alcohol and boating 
check with your local and provincial authorities.   
 

REMEMBER: In some provinces, operating a pleasure craft while impaired could result in seizure of 
alcohol and/or drugs and the loss of your motor vehicle’s driver's license. 

  

Blood-Alcohol Levels   

Throughout Canada it is a criminal offence to operate a motorized pleasure craft with a blood alcohol 
concentration of more than​ 0.08 ​(80.0 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood). 
 
If you are found operating a vessel while disqualified/prohibited, you will be subject to arrest and to the same 
punishment as if you were operating a vehicle on the road. You could be fined, be given a jail term, or both. 
 

REMEMBER: Approximately 40% of recreational boating deaths in Canada are caused by consuming 
alcoholic beverages and/or drugs.  

130 
Entering U.S. Waters   

Anyone entering U.S. waterways is required to follow a number of strict immigration and boat operation 
measures.  

Before heading to the U.S. by water, it is a good idea to contact the U.S. immigration office or visit 
www.cbp.gov/travel/pleasure-boats-private-flyers​ for the latest updates regarding U.S. Homeland Security 
procedures.  

 
When in U.S. waters : 

● Carry a passport or other document that denotes identity and citizenship; 

● Stay 100 yards away from all military, cruise lines and commercial shipping vessels;  

● Operate at minimum speed (no wake) and proceed as directed by the Coast Guard or the Navy when 
within 500 yards of a U.S. Naval vessel; 

● Avoid all military, cruise line and petroleum facilities; 

● Avoid areas near dams, power plants and other facilities; 

● Do not stop and anchor under bridges or in channels, as it is prohibited; 

● Immediately report any suspicious activity to local authorities; 

● Never approach, confront or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner; and 

● Always lock, take your keys and secure your boat when leaving it unattended. 

   

131 
Waste Disposal   

It is unlawful to knowingly pollute the water, and all 

necessary steps should be taken to avoid polluting. 
Any kind of spill or release of oil into the water may 
have serious long-term effects on the environment. 

Do not pollute the water with things like oil; fuel; 

anti-freeze; transmission fluids; garbage, 
hydrocarbons; and untreated sewage in inland waters. 

Oil and other chemicals must be kept on board in a 

receptacle until they can be properly disposed of. If oil 
or other contaminants are discharged, this must be 
reported to the Coast Guard or government authorities as soon as possible. 

 
 

Responsibility To Report  

Under the regulations, if boaters accidentally pollute; witness; or see the results of pollution that may have 
occurred, (i.e. oil or fuel spills) they must report it immediately. 

If possible, take note of the type (i.e. oil, fuel) location; and approximate amount of the pollutant in the water. 
Report the above to a Government of Canada official such as a CCG/MCTS center by VHF Marine Radio 
Channel 16 or cellular phone using * 16 where available. 
 
 

   

132 
Discharge of Sewage 

The V
​ essel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations r​ equire that boats fitted with toilets be equipped 
with either a holding tank, a marine sanitation device or temporary storage. The illegal discharge of untreated 
sewage can have devastating environmental effects and is a serious offence. 

Discharge is NOT permitted on in-land waters (including Great Lakes) and in waters that have been 
“designated” under these regulations. 

Holding Tank 

A holding tank collects and stores sewage or sewage sludge. Remember you must empty it at approved 
pump-out facilities on dry land only. Make sure to follow pumping instructions and avoid using disinfectants 
that may be harmful to the environment. 

 
 

Marine Sanitation Devices  

A marine sanitation device is designed to receive and treat sewage on board. 

Black water/sewage may be discharged under special provisions outside of inland waters providing the 
discharge is passed through a marine sanitation device and satisfies fecal count limits set under the 
regulations. 
   

133 
Pollutants   
 

The following is a list pollutants that cannot be discharged 

in Canadian waters: 

● Oil, oil-waste or fuel; 

● Hazardous chemicals (including toxic cleaning 
products); 
● Pesticides, herbicides, paint, etc.; 
● Black water (sewage) or gray water (dishwater, 
runoff from showers, bathtubs, etc.); and 
● Garbage or waste. 

Reduce Pollution from Bilges  

Oil, fuel and transmission fluid are a few examples of pollutants that harm the environment when pumped 
overboard – usually by automatic bilge pumps. Bilge cleaners, even the biodegradable ones, just break down 
the oil into tiny, less visible droplets – but it is still present. Absorbent bilge cloths are very useful because they 
are designed to absorb petroleum products and repel water.  
 

 
Here are a few tips to help keep bilge pollution at a minimum:  

● Make sure your bilge is clean before you turn on automatic bilge pumps. Only use them when needed 
and when the bilge contains only water; and 

● Use towels or bilge cloths to absorb oils, fuel, antifreeze and transmission fluid. Dispose of used 
towels or bilge cloths in an approved garbage container.  

   

134 
Green Boating Tips  

Some green boating tips include : 

● Make sure your engine is well maintained to reduce air pollution; 

● Use only paints approved for marine use;  

● When fuelling, do not top off tanks and clean up any spilled fuel;  

● Keep your bilge clean and do not pump oily water overboard;  

● Use bilge absorbents in place of detergents;  

● Do not pump your sewage over the side – use a holding tank;  

● Obey all sewage regulations;  

● Bring your garbage home (including cigarette butts) – do not litter;  

● Try not to use detergents – even biodegradable cleaners are hard on plants and animals that live in the 
water; 

● Avoid shoreline erosion – watch your wake and propeller wash;  

● Obey all speed limits for better fuel economy; and  

● Report pollution when you see it.  

135 
Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels   

 
Boat owners are responsible and liable for the end-of-life 
management of their vessel(s). 

Pollution from abandoned vessels has huge impacts on 

marine life. 

Boat owners can be held responsible and liable for all 

pollution and clean-up related costs incurred, resulting 
from their boating activities, including abandoning a 
vessel. 

If your boat is in bad condition, ensure that you dispose of it in a responsible manner before it impacts the 
environment or the safety of others. 

Contact your local or regional boating association to know more on the best places to recycle or dispose of 
your boat. 
 

It is the boat owner’s legal responsibility to dispose of an old boat responsibly: 

● Do not abandon, neglect or deliberately sink the boat; 

● Ensure that ownership documentation is transferred properly; and 
● Recycle or dispose of your boat legally and responsibly. 

 
 

Hazardous Wreck 

The owner of a vessel involved in a maritime accident that results in a hazardous wreck must take all 
reasonable steps to mark the vessel without delay. This applies to all incidents in Canadian waters and 
Canada’s Exclusive Economic Zone. 

The operator of any vessel involved in a maritime accident that results in a wreck is required to report it, 
without delay to either: 

● CCG /MCTS Center; or 

● Transport Canada. 

The owner of a vessel is liable for the costs of locating, marking and removing a hazardous wreck resulting 
from a maritime accident. 

136 
Invasive Species   
 
Non-native aquatic species, plants, fish, and animals are invading Canada’s waterways. 

Invasive exotic species of plants, fish, shellfish and even tiny algae or bacteria are invading Canada’s 
waterways. They enter into waters that are not their natural home and then multiply and crowd out the plants 
and animals that do belong there.  

Trailering a boat from one body of water to another increases the chances of spreading invasive species. 

Zebra mussels, Quagga mussels, round goby, sea lamprey and a wide variety of other organisms can spread, 
wiping out fish stock and destroying the quality of the water. 

To help prevent the introduction and spread of non-native species: 

● Always clean your hull prior to leaving or entering a new body of water; 

● Drain water from your bilge/live-well after use or before entering new waters to help remove spores 
and other organisms; 

● Clean all fishing equipment; and 

● Report new infestation of non-native aquatic species to Environment Canada. 

137 
 

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