Important Safety Reminders from CanBoat – A Community of Experienced Boaters Inspiring Others

It’s the Height of Summer – August is almost here and boats are getting more hours on the water than at any other time of year. One of the best resources available to boaters is the CanBoat / NautiSavoir boating tips library. CanBoat has spent decades teaching boaters how to be safer on the water, and their online library covers just about everything you need to know. For every boater, this is a site worth bookmarking.

Here’s a look at what you’ll find:

Boating techniques and why pre-planning matters
The best trips are planned before the boat leaves the dock. CanBoat’s techniques section covers the fundamentals: fuelling safely, right of way on the water, anchoring properly, reading buoys and markers, and boating after dark.

Boating etiquette
Summer means company on the water. CanBoat’s guides to boating etiquette and boat ramp etiquette will keep the launch line moving and the anchorage friendly. Good manners on the water aren’t just courtesy they’re safety.

VHF radio and what to do in an emergency
How to Call for Help in a Boating Emergency. Know how to use your radio before you need it. CanBoat also covers the most common mistakes boaters make on VHF, why a VHF radio beats a cell phone on the water, and what a DSC-equipped radio can do for you.

Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology
On busy summer waterways, knowing where other vessels are and letting them know where you are makes everyone safer. CanBoat explains how AIS works with Stay Extra Alert with AIS Tech.

Weather and environmental conditions
Conditions can change fast. Keeping a Weather Eye Out covers how to assess the forecast before you head out and how to read the sky once you’re on the water. There’s also guidance on near-shore speed limits and wake responsibility.

Boating gear and safety equipment including PFDs
Before every trip, check that your safety equipment is aboard and working. CanBoat offers a downloadable safety equipment checklist, plus practical guides on choosing the right lifejacket or PFD.

Tips for every season
Boating in Canada changes with the calendar, and CanBoat’s library includes launch checklists. Wherever the season takes you, there’s guidance to follow.

Safe travels out there. We’ll see you on the water.