Boat Safety and Regulations

Before setting foot on a boat, follow these safety precautions:

• Take a safety course. Local Coast Guards, power squadrons, yacht clubs and many related organizations offer courses in boating safety. A government-approved boating safety course will provide you with the mandatory Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) needed to operate a pleasure craft.
• Listen to the local weather forecast. Bad weather and high seas can be very hazardous, even for the experienced boater or sailor.
• Know the waters you are sailing. Inquire about conditions or hazards you should know before venturing out, including hazardous rocks and strong currents.
• Leave a float plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you are expected to return. Then, when you are back ashore, let your contact person know you have returned.
• Wear a personal flotation device (PFD). You are required by law to carry one PFD for each person on board.
• Ensure you have a paddle on board. If the wind dies or your boat breaks down, the paddle will help you return to shore.
• Take navigation tools, including a wristwatch and compass, as well as some regular tools including a knife, screwdriver, pliers, duct tape, line, a first aid kit and sunscreen.
• Carry a bailer. You should have a way to empty water from your boat. Secure the bailer with light line so you won't lose it overboard.
• Have a whistle, horn or some effective means of making noise. Secure the whistle to your life jacket.
• Have a fire extinguisher and flares.
• Make sure your boat is equipped with lights if you will be operating your vessel at night or in case you unintentionally get caught on the water after dark.
• Know what to do in a man-overboard emergency. When a crew member accidentally falls overboard or has been knocked into the water, each person on board should automatically perform their prearranged duty. Being prepared will eliminate any panic.
• Take water and food. Sun and saltwater cause the body to need more water.
• Wear marine clothing. It is usually cooler on the water than on land. Bring adequate clothing for protection, including rain gear. Also, bring sunglasses with a neck strap to protect your eyes from the sun and the reflection from the water.
• All recreational boaters, both domestic and foreign, who are using Victoria and Vancouver Island waters are expected to know the rules that govern British Columbia and Canadian waters. You should be aware that there are regulations in place for such things as speed, rules of the road, required safety equipment and protecting the marine environment.

To find out more about boating rules in the area you will be visiting, please contact the Canadian Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety or visit www.tc.gc.ca/BoatingSafety/menu.htm.

British Columbia, Yukon Territory
Canadian Coast Guard
25 Huron Street
Victoria, BC
V8V 4V9