No. A001/11
For release - July 18, 2011
ST. JOHN'S - Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety is reminding boaters in Newfoundland and Labrador to take extra care and use caution during the annual recreational groundfish fishery. It is important to respect the power of the ocean surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador. Remember that your trip begins before you ever leave the wharf.
Our water is cold year-round, so always wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) while boating. Most boating fatalities are caused by a combination of cold-water shock and failure to wear a lifejacket or PFD. The law requires that boat operators carry an approved, properly fitting lifejacket or PFD for each person on board. Please wear it! Today's lifejackets and PFDs are comfortable and slim-fitting.
Anything can happen on the water. This is why you must:
- Ensure that your boat is suitable for the surrounding environment and understand that the size and stability of your boat is a key factor in determining its seaworthiness;
- Before starting your trip, check the weather forecast and, once under way, watch for changing weather and water conditions and seek shelter if necessary;
- Tell someone where you are going and when you will return, even if you are out for just a few hours. Leave a trip plan with a responsible person, and carry relevant marine charts;
- Ensure that all of your safety equipment is onboard and is functioning properly. Check lines, flares, flashlight, bilge pump or bailer, navigation lights, paddles, anchor, fire extinguisher, whistle or horn and lifejackets. Brief your passengers about lifesaving procedures and ensure equipment is always accessible;
- Ensure that you have the proper communication equipment and know how to use it in the event of an emergency. VHF radio channel 16 reaches many people in case of emergency and *16 on your cell phone will also reach search & rescue personnel;
- If operating a motorized pleasure craft, have the operator's proof of competency onboard at all times; and
- Remember that boats of 10 horsepower or more must be licensed and marked and the operator must carry proof of licensing onboard.
Wake and Speed
- Boaters are asked to keep in mind that the wake created by your boat is your responsibility, and that you can be held liable for damage or harm caused by your boat's wake. It is also important to consider the effect that your wake has on swimmers, anglers, divers and un-motorized or smaller boats.
- Wake can be created with little speed. It can damage boats secured at nearby wharves, or injure occupants. It can also cause vessels to capsize, or cause damage to property and fixtures along the shoreline.
- Courtesy, respect and significant speed reduction will help to create and preserve a safe, mutually enjoyable experience for all waterway users. Boaters are encouraged to do their part by observing these simple safety rules to make this a safe, incident-free fishery.
For more information on boating safety, please call the Office of Boating Safety toll-free at 1-800-230-3693 or visit the Office of Boating Safety website at www.boatingsafety.gc.ca
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