Being prepared also means having the right gear. Use a Pre-Departure Checklist to ensure you have the right equipment with you before you go out on the water. The minimum you need is a PFD and sound signalling device, beyond that, the required equipment varies by type and length of your boat, and where and when you plan to paddle. If you’re not sure what you need, check with Transport Canada.

REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT

򪪪 Lifejacket or PFD for each person on board*

򪪪 Reboarding device (See Note)

򪪪 Buoyant heaving line at least 15 m (49’3”) long

If boat is over 6 m

򪪪 Watertight flashlight

򪪪 Flares

򪪪 Bailer OR One manual bilge pump

򪪪 Sound-signalling device or appliance

򪪪 Navigation lights

Note *If everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket or a PFD of appropriate size on a Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Board, you are only required to carry:

򪪪 a sound-signalling device; and

򪪪 a watertight flashlight if the boat is used after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility.

TRIP PLAN

Always make a plan and leave it with a responsible person before you go. If no one knows you are gone, no one will be looking for you.

CHECK THE WEATHER

Check the forecast and keep an 'eye on the sky', watching for weather changes.