Make sure your pleasure craft is in good working order and properly equipped before heading out on the water.

More than 50 % of calls for assistance from recreational boaters are because of mechanical failure.

Get properly trained

To be properly prepared, take a boating safety course  to learn how to avoid potential dangers and operate your pleasure craft safely

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

  • Are there enough flotation devices of appropriate sizes for everyone on board?
  • Do you have maps and charts?
  • Do you have enough fuel and oil?
  • Is your VHF radio working properly?
  • Do you have a first aid kit, basic tools and spare parts?
  • Have you checked the weather forecast?
  • Are there any local hazards or boating restrictions?

know what to do in an emergency

 

CALL FOR HELP

Marine VHF radio is generally the best way to send a distress alert. If you have a VHF radio, keep it tuned to channel 16. Know where you are at all times and be prepared to describe your specific location

REMEMBER: VHF radio channel 16 is used for emergency and calling purposes only.

When in extreme danger

When in extreme danger (for example, your boat is taking on water and you are in danger of sinking or capsizing), use your VHF radio channel 16 and say “Mayday” —“Mayday” — “Mayday.”

if you need help... but not in immediate danger

If you need help but are not in immediate danger (for example, your motor has quit and you cannot reach shore), use channel 16 and say “Pan-Pan” — “Pan-Pan” — “Pan-Pan.”

give the following information

In both scenarios, then give the following information:

• the name of your boat;

• your position;

• the nature of your problem; and

• the type of help you need.

Post these guidelines near your radio.

distress signals

If you see a distress signal, the law requires you to see if you can help without risking your life or the safety of your boat.

Recovering Someone who Fell Overboard

If someone falls overboard, sound the alarm and then:

• slow down, stop if possible, and throw something that floats to the person (this will also mark the spot if they are under water);

• assign someone to watch the person overboard;

• carefully put your boat in position to bring the person back on board; and

• use a heaving line that floats, or a lifebuoy secured to the boat with a line, and recover the person from the windward side.