THINGS TO KNOW

Equipment Details

Lifejackets & PFDs

NOTE: Life-saving cushions are no longer officially authorized flotation equipment. To be legal, all flotation equipment must have the approved label from the Department of Transport Canada or the Canadian Coast Guard/Fisheries and Oceans and be in good working order. They must be an appropriate size for the wearer, fit snugly, and allow normal movement. All passengers – particularly younger ones – should wear their floatation devices while on deck or in the open. Passengers should, at the very least, know where the devices are and be able to reach them quickly and easily if necessary.

Lifejackets

Standard “keyhole” lifejackets are reversible and are available in orange, red, or yellow. They come in different adult and children sizes, with weight/size designation on the label. They are easy to put on and, when properly worn, they are designed to turn the wearer face up in the water and hold the head above water. They are bulky and uncomfortable.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

These come in many styles: keyhole jackets, vests, coats and coveralls, and are available in many approved colours. They are not reversible and they will not turn the wearer face up in the water. They are more comfortable and suitable for constant wear. The new inflatable PFDs are legal on the condition that they are worn in an open boat, on deck or in the cockpit. They are not approved for use by people under the age of 16 years or lighter than 36.3 kg (80 pounds). They are not approved for use on personal watercraft. The ones that inflate automatically when the wearer goes into the water cannot be used on sailboards.

NOTE: PFDs and Life Jackets are no longer legal if they have been altered, damaged or repaired.

Heaving Lines

These lines are designed to float on the water for two reasons; to minimize the likelihood of getting tangled in the propeller and to make it easy for the person in the water to grab hold. Because they tend to be light they can be difficult to throw upwind (the usual approach to a “man overboard”). A float or life ring makes throwing easier.

Bailers

These come in many different styles and different pumping capacities. It is vital (and required by regulation) to have enough hose attached to carry the water from the bilge overboard.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers that meet the requirements must be approved by Transport Canada, Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC), United States Coast Guard for Marine Use or the British Board of Trade for Marine Use. The label will designate A B C or D Classes. The powder in dry chemical extinguishers tends to pack down. This type should be turned upside down and shaken vigorously every few weeks and must be tested every three years. Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers should be weighed annually and recharged when the capacity drops to 90 per cent. Halon extinguishers should also be inspected regularly.

Flares

These have a “best before” date and are usually good for three or four years after you purchase them. They must be replaced according to manufacturer’s instructions and the old ones safely disposed of.

Other Equipment

Boaters are not required by regulation to carry these items but they are worthwhile.

First Aid Kit. The longer the trip, the farther you stray from shore and help, the more sophisticated and comprehensive your kit should be. Knowledge of first aid is also valuable.

Emergency Kit. If you are caught out overnight, a spare flashlight, whistle and knife could come in handy. Drinking water, rations, dry clothing and other gear will make a difference to your comfort and safety.

Spare Parts. Shear pins, props, belts, hoses, clamps, spark plugs and other items such as engine oil may help you get home. The tools you’ll need to replace them, knowledge of your engine(s) and a complete manual with troubleshooting guide and repair procedures will help as well.

Plugs and Sealants. Underwater sealing compounds along with tapered wooden plugs and scrap pieces of rubber and wood could keep you afloat in the event of a leak or hole.