New Canadian Safety Regulations (res8)
by Philip Jacobs
Effective January 1, a number of new boating safety rules went into effect in Canada. While some of these are geared toward the operation of powered boats, one section in particular addresses "Minimum Required Safety Equipment-Canoes, Kayaks, Rowboats and Rowing Shells (not over 6 M in length.)"
I learned of these new regulations as a participant in an Internet Listserver, and found information at the web page for the Canadian Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety <http://www.ccgrser.org>.
Highlights dictate that each of the following be on board any craft:
· A Canadian-approved personal flotation device or lifejacket of appropriate size for each person.
· A buoyant heaving line of not less than 15 m in length.
· A bailer or manual water pump.
· A sound signalling device or appliance.
Additional requirements include a paddle, and navigation lights (if operated after sunset or in periods of restricted visibility).
These regulations seem pretty reasonable, although non-whitewater paddlers may not typically carry a bailer or throw rope, and those on smaller lakes or rivers may not typically carry a blast horn.
I'm "not so wise as those lawyer guys", and won't venture to guess whether a whistle is acceptable as a sound signaling device, or why an anchor with a short rope is an acceptable alternative to a paddle (?) in the regulations. I did contact the office to request a free copy of their Safe Boating Guide, and to ask for clarification regarding foreign visitors.
They replied that the rules do not apply to "a pleasure craft that is operated in Canada if it is ordinarily kept in a country other than Canada and it complies with any licensing, registration and equipment requirements of that country". The exemption does not apply to unregistered canoes from Minnesota. Mine are stickered, and I usually carry a throw rope and whistle anyway; adding a bailer or 'squirt stick' is a pretty minor concession.
Until recently, Canadian-approved PFD's had to be yellow, orange, or red. Bright, highly visible colors are still encouraged (and required in certain commercial situations), but the rule was loosened up to encourage boaters to wear their PFD's.
Check out the web site, or contact:Canadian Coast GuardOffice of Boating Safety200 Kent, 5th floorOttawa, Ontario K1A 0E6
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