Are you ready?

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Any boat owner knows that every spring, we can’t WAIT to get out on the water!  Watching for that last piece of ice to disappear is almost painful to those eager to get out and make the most of our all too short boating season.  In some cases, however, safety takes a back burner to desire, and too many people are caught unaware and in potentially dangerous, or even life threatening, situations.
Taken directly from the Transport Canada web page, here is a very important piece of information.  For more information on all marine safety requirements and recommendations, visit http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/menu.htm
“Inspecting your pleasure craft
 Better a few minutes of delay onshore than hours of waiting in an uncomfortable or dangerous situation. Knowingly operating a pleasure craft that is unseaworthy is a criminal offence. Your pleasure craft, its engine and equipment must be properly maintained (in good working order).

A surprising number of pleasure craft are stranded each year due to running out of fuel. More than 50 per cent of calls for assistance are from boaters in trouble as a result of the mechanical failure of their vessels.

Pre-departure checklists

Recreational boating should be fun, safe and hassle-free. No matter if you own, rent or are borrowing a pleasure craft, make sure it is in good working order and properly equipped before heading out on the water.

Inspect your pleasure craft:

  • Inspect your pleasure craft’s hull and check for cracks or other damage.
  • If you are operating a power-driven pleasure craft check its electrical, fuel, propulsion and cooling systems and make sure the throttle is operating smoothly and is not sticking or binding.
  • Make sure the steering is working properly.
  • Check the oil and fuel levels. A good rule of thumb for fuel is: one-third for the trip out, one-third for the return and one-third as reserve.
  • Check all hoses and lines for leaks or cracks and replace if necessary. Make sure all clamps and belts are secure and in good shape.
  • Inspect, clean and replace spark plugs if necessary.
  • Check and change oil and water filters if necessary.
  • Check the battery’s charge and its fluid levels.
  • Be certain the drainage plug is in place.
  • Verify the load on your boat is well distributed.

Make sure your pleasure craft has what it needs for a safe trip:

  • Are there enough flotation devices of appropriate size for everyone on board?
  • Is all of the required equipment in good working order?
  • Do you have ample reserves of fuel for the trip or will you need to refuel?
  • Do you have maps and charts?
  • Is your VHF radio working properly?
  • Do you have a first aid kit, basic tools and spare parts?

Take a minute to consider your safety preparedness:

  • Have you checked the weather forecast?
  • Are there any local hazards or boating restrictions?
  • Have you filed a sail plan to let someone know where you are going, when to expect you back and what your boat looks like?

Owners and operators of pleasure craft, including personal watercraft, should brief all guests and future operators about safe operation before heading out. Guests should be told where the safety equipment is kept and how to use it.

These are just a few things to consider before setting out. To be properly prepared, take a boating safety course. Doing so can better sensitize you to possible risks and danger on the water.”

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