“It happened so quickly. One minute you’re having the most fun of your life, the next minute you’re struggling for your life.” That was Dave Kimpinski’s comment after nearly drowning in a boating accident. Dave and his young son, Curtis, were pulling Dave’s niece Amanda on an inflatable tube with their small outboard powered boat. … Continue reading
Many years ago, a law was passed in Canada requiring that operators of powered recreational boats have a basic level of boating knowledge. Providers developed courses and tests and a proof of competency “card” was issued to those who successfully completed the test. Called the Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card or PCOC, it is a first step … Continue reading
Hypothermia. Say it out loud and it’s an unpleasant sounding word. But it has a simple meaning. It’s when the core of your body drops to abnormally low body temperatures and if it goes too low and for too long eventually your heart can stop. Many Canadian boaters are aware of hypothermia but most are … Continue reading
It’s a beautiful day; the sun is shining and you’ve just launched your boat for the start of another season on the water. And the thoughts of that tough winter just past are quickly forgotten. Everyone’s on board, excited about the day ahead, so off you go. The day unfolds as you had hoped it … Continue reading
Carbon monoxide can come from anything that burns a carbon-based fuel (gasoline, propane, charcoal, oil etc.) It can be created by engines, gas generators, cooking ranges, heaters etc. CO acts a lot like air. It doesn’t rise or fall, but spreads evenly throughout an enclosed space and is very toxic. It can cause headache, dizziness, … Continue reading
The days are getting longer ~ if not much warmer. It’s time to get out on the water – or at the very least, prepare to get out on the water. Please do remember that even though the days may be warm the water is still very cold. Minor boating incidents in warmer weather could … Continue reading
I often get asked if regular care and maintenance is necessary for inflatable PFDs. Here is a rather lengthy answer to the question and some recommendations. Inflatable (PFDs) are preferred by many boaters because they are very comfortable to wear and this often outweighs their higher cost. They can save a life and in Canada, … Continue reading
Everyday good manners are only common courtesy, customs are derived from traditions. Lines and fenders should be taken aboard when leaving harbour. Fenders hanging over the side spoil the appearance of any boat underway while trailing lines can foul rudders and props. Always respect the rights of others while underway. Power boaters must take note … Continue reading
Ropes and lines are an important part of any boat, especially sailboats. They have a multitude of uses and there can never be too many of them on board. Take a moment to learn or refresh your memory on the ins and outs of the following knots. A length of line is of little … Continue reading
Load up your tablet with these free publications from the Government of Canada. Safe Boating Guide – PDF: http://www.tc.gc.ca/media/documents/marinesafety/TP-511e.pdf Guide de sécurité nautique – PDF: http://www.tc.gc.ca/media/documents/securitemaritime/TP-511f.pdf Boat Notes – Your Guide to Boating Safety – PDF: Boat_Notes_En_May-2016_CPS_Web Carnet de bord – Cap sur la sécurité nautique – PDF: Boat_Notes_Fr_May-2016_CPS_Web Chart 1: Symbols, Abbreviations and Terms – … Continue reading
The CPS-ECP Boating Resource 