BoatSmart Canada article:
Personal Safety Equipment
It is important for all boat operators to be safe and make sure their passengers are safe on the water.
Boaters are required to carry personal safety equipment on their boats at all times.
The required personal safety equipment depends on the size and type of boat.
Operators should inform all passengers of where the safety equipment is located on board and how to use it.
Be safe at all times!!!
- Personal Safe Boating Equipment Includes:
- Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) & Lifejackets: PFDs and Lifejackets must be approved by Transport Canada. There are a variety of styles and types of PFDs and Lifejackets, learn more about PFDs and Lifejackets.
- Buoyant Heaving Line: A buoyant Heaving Line is equipped with a buoy or float at one end. The buoyant heaving line is designed to throw to a person who has fallen overboard or is in the water and needs help.
- Emergency Kit: An emergency kit should be stored in a watertight container and in an easily accessible location. The emergency kit should include: emergency rations, drinking water, a first aid kit, waterproof matches, a waterproof flashlight, a knife, a whistle and dry clothing.
Required Boat Safety Equipment
Part of being prepared for a safe boating trip is to make sure that you have all the required boat safety equipment on board. All boats are required by law to carry specific boat safety equipment at all times. The required boat safety equipment depends on the size and type of boat.
- Boat Safety Equipment Includes:
- Bailing Device: A bailing device is used to remove water from the inside of a boat. A bailing device could be a manual or electric bilge pump, a bucket, or a homemade scoop.
- Anchor: An anchor can be used to secure your boat in case of a breakdown or anchorage due to poor weather. Anchors are available in various types and styles; boaters should refer to their boat manufacture’s recommendations for style and weight.
- Manual Propelling Device: Manual propelling devices, such as oars or paddles can be used to maneuver your boat in case of an engine failure and boating breakdown.
- Axe: An axe can be used as an effective fire-fighting tool on large boats. An axe can be used to chop a wall that is concealing open flames, an axe can also be used to cut a tow line in case of an emergency.
- Life Ring: A life ring, also known as a life buoy, is a circular shaped device that can be used to rescue a person who has fallen overboard. A life ring must be attached to a line of at least 15 meters in length.
- Fire Extinguisher: A fire extinguisher is a tool to control small fires in emergency situations.
- Re-boarding Device: A reboarding device, such as a ladder is designed to aid and assist a person back into the boat or back on board.