Unit 1

Here are terms that are used in this course.

 Vessel: A ship, pleasure craft, or non-pleasure craft capable of being used as a means of
transportation on water
 Pleasure Craft: A vessel that is used only for pleasure or recreational activities, such as fishing
or water sports, and does not carry paid passengers
 Non-Pleasure Craft: A small commercial vessel that carries goods or passengers (people who
have paid a fee to be transported), a workboat, a commercial fishing vessel, etc.
 Boat: A pleasure craft
 Power-Driven Vessel: Any vessel that is propelled by a motor or machinery
 Sailing Vessel: Any vessel that is propelled only by wind in its sails and not by a motor or
machinery
 Operate: To control the speed and course of a pleasure craft
 Operator: The person in control of the speed and course of a pleasure craft
 Design Waterline: The waterline when a pleasure craft is at its maximum recommended gross
load capacity

 Beam: Maximum width of a boat

 Freeboard: Distance from water to lowest point of the boat where water could come on board
 Draft: Depth of water needed to float a boat
 Keel: Main centreline (backbone) of a boat or the extension of hull that increases stability in the
water
There are two basic types of boat hulls—displacement and planning.
Boats with displacement hulls move through the water by pushing the water aside and are designed to cut
through the water with very little propulsion.
 If you lower a boat into the water, some of the water moves out of the way to adjust for the boat.
If you could weigh that displaced water, you would find it equals the weight of the boat. That
weight is the boat's displacement.
 Boats with displacement hulls are limited to slower speeds.
 A round-bottomed hull shape acts as a displacement hull. Most large cruisers and most sailboats
have displacement hulls, allowing them to travel more smoothly through the water.

Planing Hulls
Boats with planing hulls are designed to rise up and glide on top of the water when enough power is
supplied. These boats may operate like displacement hulls when at rest or at slow speeds but climb
toward the surface of the water as they move faster.

 Boats with planing hulls can skim along at high speed, riding almost on top of the water rather
than pushing it aside.
 Flat-bottomed and vee-bottomed hull shapes act as planing hulls. Most small power-driven boats,
including personal watercraft (PWCs), and some small sailboats have planing hulls, allowing
them to travel more rapidly across the water

How Planing Hulls Operate

Displacement Mode: A planing hull, when operated at very slow speeds, will cut through the water like a
displacement hull.

Plowing Mode: As speed increases, a planing hull will have a raised bow, reducing the operator’s vision
and throwing a very large wake. Avoid maintaining a speed that puts your boat in plowing mode.

Planing Mode: Your boat is in planing mode when enough power is applied so that the hull glides on top
of the water. Different boats reach planing mode at different speeds.
Descriptions of Hull Shapes

Hull Shapes Hull Type Advantages Disadvantages

Flat- Planing Has a shallow draft, which is Rides roughly in choppy waters.
Bottomed good for fishing in small
Hull lakes and rivers.

Deep Vee- Planing Gives a smoother ride than a Takes more power to move at the same
Bottomed flat-bottomed hull in rough speed as flat-bottomed hulls. May roll
Hull water. or bank in sharp turns.

Round- Displacement Moves easily through the Has a tendency to roll unless it has a
Bottomed water, even at slow speeds. deep keel or stabilizers.
Hull

Multi-Hull Displacement Has greater stability because Needs a large area when turning.
of its wide beam.

Flat-bottomed hull

Deep-vee hull

Round-bottomed hull

Multi-hull

Measuring Length Overall

When boating, the length overall dictates the equipment the pleasure craft must carry to comply with
Canadian law. Length overall is measured from the tip of the bow in a straight line to the stern of the
pleasure craft, including any rear deck extensions (platforms). Bow sprits; rudders; outboard motors and
motor brackets; handles; and other fittings and attachments are not included in the measurement.
Because length overall dictates the required equipment, vessels are grouped in the following way:
 Pleasure Craft 6 metres or less in length
 Pleasure Craft more than 6 metres in length
 Non-Pleasure Craft 6 metres or less in length
 Non-Pleasure Craft more than 6 metres in length

Outboard Engines

 An outboard is a portable, self-contained package of an engine, gear case, and propeller that is

attached to the transom of a boat.

 A growing number of outboard engines are of four-stroke design, but many are still conventional
two-stroke engines that burn oil as a lubricant along with the fuel. New-technology two-stroke
outboards are direct-injection engines and burn over 75% cleaner than conventional two-stroke
outboards.

 Outboards have more power per kilogram of weight than do inboard engines.

 Steering of outboard boats is controlled by a tiller or steering wheel that swivels the entire engine
to direct propeller thrust.

Inboard Engines
  An inboard is a four-stroke automotive engine adapted for marine use. Inboard engines are
mounted inside the hull's midsection or in front of the transom.

 The engine turns a drive shaft that runs through the bottom of the hull and is attached to a
propeller at the other end.

 Many personal watercraft (PWCs) have two-stroke inboard engines that burn oil as a lubricant
along with the fuel. New-technology two-stroke PWC engines are direct-injection engines and
burn cleaner than conventional PWC engines.

 Steering of most inboard boats, except PWCs and jet-drive boats, is controlled by a rudder behind
the propeller.

Stern Drives

 Stern drives are known also as inboard/outboards (I/Os) because they combine features found on
both inboard and outboard engines. Stern-drive engines:

o Are four-stroke automotive engines adapted for marine use and...

o Are mounted inside the boat and...

o Are quieter and more fuel-efficient engines.

 A stern-drive engine is attached through the transom to a drive unit (also called an "outdrive")
that is essentially the lower unit of an outboard. The engine turns a drive shaft that is attached to a
propeller at the other end.

 Steering of stern-drive boats is controlled by the outdrive, which swivels like an outboard engine
to direct propeller thrust.

Jet Drives

 Jet drives use an engine to power a strong water pump. The pump sucks up water and then forces
a jet of water out the back of the boat to thrust the boat forward. Directing this jet of water steers
the boat.

 Personal watercraft are the most common type of pleasure craft that use a jet drive.

 Jet drives also may power larger boats (jet boats) and are used commonly for boats designed for
shallow water conditions. Jet boats can have inboard or outboard jet drives.
What Is a Personal Watercraft?
A PWC is a small pleasure craft that uses an inboard jet drive as its primary source of propulsion and is
designed to be operated by a person or persons sitting, standing, or kneeling on the PWC rather than
inside the pleasure craft.

Parts of a PWC From a Front View

Parts of a PWC From a Side View and Operator's View

Side View of PWC

 Stern: Rear of a boat or PWC

 Bow: Front of a boat or PWC
 Draft: Depth of water needed to float a boat or PWC
 Intake: Opening in the hull that draws water toward the impeller
 Intake Grate: Screening cover over the intake, which prevents large debris from entering
 Drive Shaft: The long stem connection between the motor and the impeller
 Impeller: Device used to pump and force water under pressure through a steering nozzle at the
rear of the craft
 Steering Nozzle: Device used for directing the stream of water to the left or right at the stern of
the PWC, which steers the PWC
Operator’s View of PWC
What Is a Compliance Notice?
A pleasure craft’s compliance notice shows that the pleasure craft was in compliance with the
construction requirements at the time the pleasure craft was built or imported (the latest of the two). If the
pleasure craft is 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length, the compliance notice also will include the
maximum recommended safe capacity and horsepower limits.

Compliance Notice Requirements

If your pleasure craft is less than 24 metres (78.7 feet) in length and can be fitted with a motor, a
compliance notice must be permanently affixed where it is plainly visible from the helm.
If a pleasure craft was built after April 29, 2010, the manufacturer or importer is required to provide the
owner with a compliance notice. If the pleasure craft was built before April 29, 2010, the manufacturer or
importer is not required to provide a compliance notice.
It is illegal to:
 Remove or alter a pleasure craft’s compliance notice or…
 Attach a compliance notice that contains untrue information to a pleasure craft.
Exceptions to these requirements are explained in the Small Vessel Regulations.
PWC Requirement
According to ISO 13590, personal watercraft (PWCs) built after April 29, 2010, must display both the
ISO 13590 builder’s plate and a compliance notice.

Types of Compliance Notices

Transport Canada issues compliance notices, which may be either a glued-on label or a riveted metal
plate.
There are three types of compliance notices. The type of compliance notice you have depends on the
length of your vessel.
 For vessels 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length, the compliance notice includes the maximum
recommended safe limits.
 For vessels more than 6 metres (19.7 feet) in length, there are compliance notices for:
o Pleasure craft

o Non-pleasure craft

Compliance Notices: Vessels 6 Metres or Less in Length

A compliance notice for a pleasure craft of 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length gives maximum
recommended safe limits for that boat. These limits are:
 Maximum number of people who can be on board
 Maximum weight (gross load capacity) the pleasure craft is designed to carry, including people,
motor, equipment, etc.
 Maximum outboard motor weight and horsepower (for an outboard-powered pleasure craft)
This information applies only in good weather. The number of people who can be carried safely depends
on the type of pleasure craft, where people and equipment are carried, and weather and water conditions.
Operators must not exceed the limits listed on the compliance notice to avoid overloading their pleasure
craft.
If your pleasure craft is 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length, is powered by an outboard motor, and does
not have a compliance notice, use the following formula to calculate the maximum number of people the
pleasure craft can carry safely in good weather.
Number of people = recommended maximum gross load (in kg) - total weight of outboard engine and
equipment (in kg) ÷ 75
For example, for an outboard-powered boat that is 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length with a
recommended maximum gross load of 578 kg, an engine weighing 228 kg, and equipment weighing
50 kg, the number of people is 578 kg minus 278 kg divided by 75, which equals four 75-kg/165-
lb people (or a total person weight of 4 × 75, or 300 kg/660 lbs).

Compliance Notices: Vessels More Than 6 Metres in Length

If your vessel is more than 6 metres (19.7 feet) in length:
 The compliance notice will not have any recommended safe limits. However, these pleasure craft
can become unstable if overloaded. You should refer to your boat’s manufacturer for guidance
and use good judgment when loading and operating the pleasure craft.
 It will have a compliance notice for either a pleasure craft or a non-pleasure craft. Each type of
compliance notice must indicate if the craft was built to the construction requirements for a
pleasure craft or a non-pleasure craft.
Filing a Float Plan
A float plan (also called a sail, trip, or rescue plan) includes your travel route and a basic description of
your pleasure craft. You should file a float plan with a responsible person before going out on a boat or
PWC, even if it’s just for a couple of hours.

Float Plan for Short Outings

For shorter daytime outings on the water, at a minimum you should:
 Contact a responsible person before you go out, and tell him or her where you will be boating and
when you plan to return. This is the most important information in a float plan.
 Ask that person to contact a Joint Rescue Coordination Centre or Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre if
you fail to return on time.
 Contact this person again when you return or if you decide to extend your time out on the water.

Float Plan for Extended Outings

For extended outings on the water, leave a float plan with a relative or friend, or at least a local marina.
You also should file a daily position report, especially if your planned route has changed.
Your float plan should:
 Describe the pleasure craft, including its name and licence number, length, make, colour, and
engine type.
 Give your name, address, telephone number, and number of people on board in case of
emergency.
 State your proposed route, your planned departure time, and your expected return time. Include
the location of all stopping points, dates, and times.
 Give the phone number for Joint Rescue Coordination Centre or Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre in
case you fail to return when expected.
Contact the person who has your float plan when you return from your outing to let them know that you
are back

Before Fueling
Serious accidents can occur when fueling. Never fuel at night unless it is an emergency. If you must
refuel after dark, use only electric lights. To protect the water environment, try to refuel away from the
water or on a commercial fueling ramp. Follow these procedures in order to fuel safely and responsibly.
Before beginning to fuel:
  Tie the pleasure craft securely to the fuel dock.
 Ask all passengers to leave the pleasure craft and go onto the dock.
 Do not allow anyone in your group or others at the fuel dock to smoke, strike a match, or use a
lighter.
 Check to see that fuel lines, connections, and fuel vents are in good condition.
 Turn off anything that might cause a spark—engines, fans, or electrical equipment.
 Shut off all fuel valves and extinguish all open flames, such as galley stoves and pilot lights.
 Close all windows, ports, doors, and other openings to prevent vapours from entering the pleasure
craft.
 Remove portable fuel tanks from the pleasure craft and fill them on the dock.
 Make sure that your fire extinguisher is within reach

While Fueling
While filling the fuel tank:
 Keep the nozzle of the fuel-pump hose in solid contact with the tank opening to prevent
producing a static spark.
 Use caution and fill the tank slowly to avoid spilling fuel into the boat's bilge or into the water.
Use an absorbent bilge cloth to catch drips or spills.
 Never fill a tank to the brim—leave room for fuel to expand.

After Fueling
Evaporating gasoline creates vapours or fumes that are heavier than air. These vapours settle to the
bottom of the pleasure craft where they could explode if enclosed areas, such as the bilge, are not
ventilated properly to remove vapours.
After fueling:
 Put the fill cap on tightly to prevent vapours from escaping.
 Wipe up any spilled fuel and properly dispose of the used paper towels or rags on shore.
 Open all windows, ports, doors, and other openings.
 If your pleasure craft is equipped with a power ventilation system (exhaust blower), turn it on for
at least four minutes before starting your engine. This will help eliminate fuel vapours in the
bilge.
 Before starting the engine, sniff the bilge and engine compartment for fuel vapours. Continue
ventilating until you cannot smell any fuel vapours. Consider installing a gas vapour detection
and alarm device.
 Start the engine and then reload your passengers

Fueling a PWC
Serious accidents also can occur when fueling a personal watercraft (PWC). Spilled or leaked fuel can
ignite and explode, especially in an enclosed space. PWC operators should pay particular attention to
these fueling guidelines.
 Check the entire fuel system for leaks and inspect fuel system connections frequently. Engine
vibrations and the pounding from operating on rough water can loosen connections.
 Avoid fuel spills when fueling in or near the water.
 Do not tip the PWC in order to fill it all the way up. The tank is designed to leave space for the
fuel to expand. If the tank is overfilled, the fuel may expand and spill into the water.
  After fueling, open the door of the PWC’s engine compartment and sniff to check for any
evidence of fuel vapours. Do this before starting the engine. If you do smell fuel vapours,
determine the source and make repairs immediately.

Courtesy on the Ramp

Traffic jams at ramps can be prevented if everyone practices common courtesy. Be sure you observe these
simple courtesies.
 Prepare your boat for launching or for the drive home well away from the ramp.
 Never block a ramp with an unattended boat or vehicle. Move the boat away from the launch lane
immediately after removing it from the trailer. Return briefly to pick up the vehicle driver once he
or she has parked the vehicle and is back at the ramp.
 When retrieving, do not pull your boat into a launch lane until the towing vehicle is at the ramp.
The line is formed by vehicles with trailers, not by boats in the water. Drop off the vehicle driver,
and wait offshore and clear of the ramp until he or she arrives with the trailer.

Do Not Power Load Your Pleasure Craft

Propeller wash can erode the sediment just beyond the ramp surface, creating a large hole. The eroded
sediment is deposited behind the propeller, creating a mound. Trailer tires can get stuck in these holes,
and pleasure craft can run aground on the mound. Instead of power loading, use the trailer's winch to load
your pleasure craft.

Pleasure Craft Maintenance

Keeping your pleasure craft well-maintained will extend its life and give you and your family many more
years of enjoyment.
 Examine the interior and exterior of the hull when it is out of the water.
o Check for oxidation, a common problem on aluminum hulls, which appears as white
powder spots.
 Use fine sandpaper on oxidized areas until spots are replaced by bright shiny
metal.
  If you sand, scrape, or remove any antifoulant coating from your pleasure craft’s
hull, collect all paint residue and dispose of it properly at a household waste
facility.
o To slow the growth of marine organisms, use regular paint and a coat of slick bottom wax
instead of an antifoulant coating.
 The wax will prevent surface dirt from sticking, reducing the need for detergents
when you wash your pleasure craft.
 If you have a small boat, you can avoid using antifouling paint by storing the
boat on dry land.
o To protect the environment, use only plain water or environmentally safe, non-phosphate
detergents to remove algae and oil from fiberglass hulls.
 Clean the hull frequently with a long-handled brush at your home or marina to
reduce the need for antifoulant coatings.
 Avoid abrasive materials, which can remove the shiny top layer (gel coat).
o Patch holes immediately with a fiberglass patching compound.

o Check through-hull fittings to make sure they are not cracked or leaking.

o Remove all puddles from the interior before and after every outing.

 Store pleasure craft in a dry area out of the sun. If you must store the pleasure craft for a long
period of time, place the trailer on blocks to preserve the tires. Keep the pleasure craft covered,
leaving an opening to circulate air. Hang canoes upside down.
 Clean all lines (ropes). Dirt and sand cause deterioration. Keep lines out of the sun when not in
use, and replace weakened or fraying lines.
 Clean sails with a soft brush. Examine them for small tears or open seams that can be repaired by
taping or sewing.
 Refer to the owner's manual for a maintenance schedule.

Alternatives to Toxic Cleansers

Toxic Products Non-Toxic Cleaning Solutions

Aluminum cleaner Add 2 tablespoons cream of tartar to 1 litre of hot water.

Bleach Hydrogen peroxide

Chrome cleaner and polish Use apple cider vinegar to clean and baby oil to polish.

Clear plastic cleaner Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts warm water.

Deck Cleaner Mix 1 part white vinegar with 8 parts warm water.

Fiberglass cleaner Make a paste with baking soda and water.

Mildew remover Use equal parts lemon juice and salt to make a paste.

Scouring powders and shower & toilet Baking soda

cleaners

Window cleaner Add 1/4 litre white vinegar to 1 litre warm water.
 Toxic Products Non-Toxic Cleaning Solutions

Wood Polish Make a solution of 3 parts olive oil or almond oil and 1 part
white vinegar.

Engine Maintenance
Engine maintenance is important. Follow a regular maintenance program.
 Keep your engine clean and tuned properly. Refer to your owner's manual for a maintenance
schedule.
 Check the oil and fluid levels before every outing. Change the oil according to the owner's
manual. As the engine ages, increase the frequency of oil changes. Clean oil extends engine life.
 Tighten battery connections. Clean battery terminals by disconnecting the terminals and
removing corrosion with a wire brush. If the battery is weak when you start the engine, recharge
it.
 Inspect the engine for anything that shows signs of wear or requires tightening, such as hoses,
belts, and bolts. Make sure everything is fitted properly, including the engine cover.
 Never use automotive electrical parts. Use marine parts only. Use of automotive parts rather than
sealed marine parts (such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, and other electrical parts) could
cause a spark that could ignite a fire.
Glossary
Bow: Front of a vessel
Cleat: Metal fitting on which a rope can be fastened
Gunwale: Upper edge of vessel’s side (generally pronounced "gunnel")
Hull: Body of a vessel
Port: Left side of a vessel
Propeller: Rotates and powers a boat forward or backward
Starboard: Right side of a vessel
Stern: Rear of a vessel
Propeller: Rotating device that turns and powers a boat forward or backward
Tiller: Handle used to turn a rudder to steer a boat
Transom: Vertical surface at the back of the hull
Rudder: Steering device, usually a vertical blade attached to a post at, or near, the stern of the boat
Impeller: Device used to pump and force water under pressure through a steering nozzle at the rear of the
vessel
Intake: Opening in the hull that draws water toward the impeller
Intake grate: Screening cover over the intake, which prevents large debris from entering
Engine shut-off line: Short cord for attaching the ignition safety switch to the operator's wrist flotation
device (lifejacket or PFD)
Port: Left side of a vessel
Starboard: Right side of a vessel
Steering control: Means of controlling the steering nozzle
Helm: Lever or wheel that controls a pleasure craft’s steering
ISO 13590: International Standard Organization Standard ISO 13590, Small Craft — Personal
Watercraft — Construction and System Installation Requirements
Bilge: Interior of the hull below the floorboards; lowest part of a boat's interior where the sides of the boat
curve in to form the bottom
Unit 2
Flotation Devices
There are two main types of flotation devices.
 Lifejackets will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water. Standard lifejackets are
keyhole-style flotation devices that are approved for use on all pleasure craft.
 Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are designed to be more comfortable to wear than lifejackets,
but they may not turn an unconscious person face up in the water.
To comply with the Small Vessel Regulations, all pleasure craft must be equipped with enough Canadian-
approved lifejackets or PFDs for everyone on board. Each lifejacket or PFD must have enough buoyancy,
be in good condition, and very importantly, be readily accessible! Readily accessible means you must be
able to put the flotation device on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency (vessel sinking, on fire,
etc.). Flotation devices should not be stowed in plastic bags or in locked or closed compartments, and
they should not have other gear stowed on top of them.
Flotation devices also must be the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for flotation devices is
based on the person’s weight and chest size. The only exceptions to this requirement are:
 A person with a chest size in excess of 140 cm
 A child weighing less than 9 kg (20 lbs)
Pleasure craft operators should ask everyone on their boat to wear a flotation device whenever on the
water, particularly in smaller boats. Although you can choose between lifejackets and PFDs, keep in mind
that lifejackets offer better protection. Flotation devices can save lives, but only if they are worn!
An emergency situation (rough water, rapid onset of bad weather, or dangerous boating traffic) can occur
suddenly—leaving little or no time to put on lifejackets or PFDs. Lifejackets and PFDs are very difficult
to put on once you are in the water. Be a smart boater, and have everyone on board your boat wear a
lifejacket or PFD at all times.

To adjust your flotation device:

 Use the straps and/or buckles to make sure that it fits comfortably yet snugly at your waist. This
will keep the flotation device from moving up too close to your ears if you end up in the water.
 Make sure that the device isn’t too tight. SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and standard type
lifejackets must be worn loose enough so that water can flow under the lifejacket to turn the
wearer face up.
Lifejackets
Canadian-approved lifejackets are red, orange, or yellow. These colours make you more visible when in
the water. The three approved lifejacket types below are inherently buoyant. This means that the lifejacket
will keep you afloat when you are wearing it in the water.
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Lifejacket

This type of lifejacket will provide the most buoyancy, is excellent for flotation, and will turn most
unconscious persons face up in the water within seconds. This keyhole-style flotation device comes in
two sizes:
  Over 32 kg (70 lbs)
 Less than 32 kg (70 lbs)
Standard Type Lifejacket

This type of lifejacket will turn most unconscious wearers face up in the water, but the turning is not as
pronounced as with a SOLAS lifejacket. This keyhole-style flotation device comes in two sizes:
 Over 40 kg (88 lbs)
 Less than 40 kg (88 lbs)
Small Vessel Lifejacket

This type of lifejacket will turn most unconscious wearers face up in the water, but the turning is not as
pronounced as with a SOLAS or standard type lifejacket. This keyhole-style or vest-type flotation device
comes in three sizes:
 Over 41 kg (90 lbs)
 18 kg (40 lbs) to 41 kg (90 lbs)
 Less than 18 kg (40 lbs)
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) may be used instead of lifejackets on all pleasure craft,
regardless of length. This includes inherently buoyant and inflatable PFDs.
 PFDs are designed to be more comfortable than lifejackets. This is a benefit when you plan to
wear a flotation device constantly while boating.
 Not all PFDs are red, orange, or yellow. It is a good idea to choose one of these colours, however,
so that you are more visible when in the water.
 PFDs usually offer less flotation than lifejackets and have a limited capability to turn you on your
back if you fall in the water.
 Some PFDs provide thermal protection against hypothermia.
 All adult-size inherently buoyant PFDs are designed to be worn by persons who weigh more than
41 kg (90 lbs). They range in size from XXS to XXXL.
Choose a PFD based on what you will be doing while wearing it.
  PFDs that have three or more chest belts will be more secure if you will be operating at high
speeds.
 PFDs with thermal protection are a good choice if you will be boating in water that is less than
15°C.
 PFDs are available for specific activities, including canoeing, kayaking, sailboarding, and water
skiing.

All Canadian-approved lifejackets and PFDs are labelled in English and French.

The label must show that the device has been approved by:
 Department of Transport Canada or…
 Canadian Coast Guard, Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
Lifejackets approved by the U.S. Coast Guard are not Canadian-approved. However, visitors to Canada
may bring their own lifejacket to use on a pleasure craft as long as it fits and it conforms to the laws of
their home country.
Caring for Your Flotation Device
Flotation devices must be in good and serviceable condition. Flotation devices that are in poor condition
are not approved to be worn while underway on Canadian waters. Discard and replace any flotation
device that has a problem.
 Frequently inspect flotation devices for:
o Rips or tears

o Discoloured or weakened material

 o Insecure straps, buckles, or zippers

o Labels that are no longer readable

 Check buoyancy regularly in shallow water or a swimming pool by lifting your feet to see how
well you float while wearing your flotation device.
 Never use your flotation device as a cushion while sitting or kneeling.
 Do not use a flotation device as a fender for your pleasure craft.
 Use only mild soap and water to clean it. Never dry clean it.
 After they have been air dried, store flotation devices in a readily accessible area that is dry, well-
ventilated, and out of direct sunlight.

Inflatable PFDs
Inflatable PFDs provide buoyancy when their chambers are inflated. This happens when air or gas
(usually CO2 from a cylinder) is discharged into the chamber or when the PFD is inflated by mouth.
Inflatable PFDs are available in three styles.
Manual (vest or suspender type)
Can be inflated manually by using a CO2 system or by mouth.

Manual (pouch type)

Can be inflated by mouth or by pulling the ripcord or toggle that activates a CO 2 gas inflation system.

Automatic (jacket type only)

Automatically inflates when immersed in water. This type also may be inflated manually by pulling a
toggle or ripcord. It is not permitted for sailboarding or white-water activities or for persons on PWCs
because frequent immersions will cause premature inflation.
Inflatable PFD Requirements
The conditions for inflatable PFDs to be approved under Canada’s Small Vessel Regulations are as
follows.
 Inflatable PFDs are not approved for persons who are:
o less than 16 years of age

o operating or riding on PWCs

o engaging in white-water paddling

 Inflatable PFDs must have:

o An undamaged inflation cartridge that is in good working condition. If not, the PFD must
be worn fully inflated.
o Compatible parts for the inflator and CO2 cylinder (see your owner’s manual). If the parts
aren’t compatible, the PFD may not inflate properly.

Inflatable PFD Maintenance

Before each outing, check the status of the inflator and that the CO 2 cylinder has not been used, has no
leaks, and is screwed in tightly. Also check that the PFD itself has no leaks by removing the CO 2 cylinder
and inflating the PFD by mouth. The PFD should still be firm after several hours.
After an inflatable PFD has been inflated using a cylinder, replace the spent cylinder and re-arm it.
Because an inflatable PFD is a mechanical device, it requires regular maintenance. Maintain the inflatable
portion of the PFD as instructed in the owner’s manual.
Children and Flotation Devices
Children should wear a flotation device and be near an adult at all times. It is a good idea to attach a
plastic pealess whistle to the child’s flotation device.
 When buying a child’s lifejacket:
o Verify that it is Canadian-approved.

o Always read the label of the lifejacket to make sure it is the right size based on the child's
weight and chest size.
o Try it on your child.

o Make sure to check that it fits snugly.

 Test the fit by picking the child up by the shoulders of the lifejacket and checking
that his or her chin and ears do not slip through the lifejacket.
 The lifejacket is too large if there are more than 7.6 cm (3 inches) between the
lifejacket and your child’s shoulders.
 These safety features are important in a child’s lifejacket:
o A between-the-legs safety strap to keep the flotation device in place

o A large, supportive collar for the child’s head

o Retro-reflective tape to make it more visible at night

o Safety straps with buckles

o Waist ties or elastic gathers in front and back

 You may choose a PFD instead of a lifejacket for your child.

o Child-size inherently buoyant PFDs are sized as follows:

 27-41 kg (59-90 lbs)

 14-27 kg (31-60 lbs)
  9-14 kg (20-31 lbs)
o There are no Canadian-approved inflatable PFDs for children under 9 kg (20 lbs).

Buoyant Heaving Lines and Lifebuoys

Buoyant heaving lines and lifebuoys are personal lifesaving appliances that are designed to be thrown to a
person in the water.
Buoyant Heaving Lines

A buoyant heaving line is a floating rope that has a soft buoyant object on one end. The line can be
thrown toward a person in the water for him or her to hold onto while you pull them alongside. Packing
the line in a rescue throw bag will keep the line from getting knotted and make it easier to throw.
 In order for a buoyant heaving line to meet the requirements in the Small Vessel Regulations and
be approved for use on your pleasure craft, it must:
o Be made of one continuous piece of rope that is the correct length for your pleasure
craft and…
o Float and be in good condition and…

o Be easily accessible in case of an emergency.

 You should practice throwing a buoyant heaving line so that you will be prepared to use it if the
need arises.
Lifebuoys

A lifebuoy is a throwable type of flotation device with a line attached. The line is used to pull the lifebuoy
once it has been thrown to a person in the water.
 To meet the requirements in the Small Vessel Regulations, the lifebuoy must:
o Be at least 610 mm (24 inches) in diameter and be made of inherently buoyant
material and…
o Be attached to a good-quality buoyant line that won’t kink and is at least 9.5 mm in
diameter and 15 metres long and…
o Have a Transport Canada approval stamp or label with an approval number in the
following format: T.C.xxx.xxx.xxx.
 To increase visibility, make sure you have retro-reflective tape encircling the lifebuoy at four
equally spaced points. The retro-reflective tape should be visible on both sides of the device.

Buoyant Heaving Lines and Lifebuoys: Requirements

The requirements for buoyant heaving lines and lifebuoys depend on the length and type of pleasure craft
you are operating.
  Sailboats and powerboats 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length must have a buoyant heaving
line that is at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in length. This includes PWCs.
 Sailboats and powerboats over 6 metres and up to 9 metres (19.7 feet to 29.5 feet) in
length must have:
o A buoyant heaving line that is at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in length or…

o A lifebuoy attached to a buoyant heaving line that is at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in
length.
 Sailboats and powerboats over 9 metres and up to 12 metres (29.5 feet to 39.4 feet) in
length must have:
o A buoyant heaving line that is at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in length and…

o A lifebuoy attached to a buoyant heaving line that is at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in
length.
 Sailboats and powerboats over 12 metres and up to 24 metres (39.4 feet to 78.7 feet) in
length must have:
o A buoyant heaving line that is at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in length and…

o A lifebuoy equipped with a self-igniting light or attached to a buoyant heaving line that is
at least 15 metres (49.2 feet) in length.

Reboarding Devices
A reboarding device helps a person get back into the pleasure craft from the water.
 A built-in transom ladder, swim platform, and lifting harness are examples of reboarding devices.
 A reboarding device is required under the Small Vessel Regulations only if the freeboard distance
on your pleasure craft is over 0.5 metres (1 foot 8 inches). This includes PWCs.
 The reboarding device cannot include any part of the pleasure craft’s propulsion unit.

Manual Propelling Devices and Anchors

The Small Vessel Regulations require certain pleasure craft to carry on board a manual propelling device
or an anchor.
 Pleasure craft up to 9 metres (29.5 feet) in length, including PWCs, are required to carry either a
manual propelling device or an anchor on board. PWCs are exempt from this requirement if
everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket or PFD.
 Pleasure craft over 9 metres (29.5 feet) in length must have an anchor on board.
Manual Propelling Devices
Manual propelling devices can be:
 Oars or…
 Paddles or…
 Rudders on small open sailboats or…
 Anything else that can be operated with hands or feet to propel a pleasure craft.
Anchors
An anchor must have a line of cable, rope, or galvanized chain attached.
The required length of the line depends on the length and type of pleasure craft you are operating.
 Sailboats and powerboats up to 9 metres (29.5 feet) in length and PWCs must have at least 15
metres (49.2 feet) of cable, rope, or chain.
 Sailboats and powerboats over 9 metres and up to 12 metres (29.5 feet to 39.4 feet) in length must
have at least 30 metres (98.4 feet) of cable, rope, or chain.
 Sailboats and powerboats over 12 metres (39.4 feet) in length must have at least 50 metres (164
feet) of cable, rope, or chain.

 Bailers and Bilge Pumps

To be able to remove water from the hull, the Small Vessel Regulations require you to carry a manual
bilge pump. If your boat is not more than 9 metres (29.5 feet) long, you may carry a bailer instead of a
pump. PWCs may carry a manual bilge pump or a bailer.
 If you have a manual bilge pump, the pump and hose must be long enough that water can be
pumped from the bilge space of the boat over the side of the boat.
 If you have a bailer, the bailer should be made of plastic or metal, have an opening of at least 65
square centimetres (10 square inches), and be able to hold at least 750 millilitres (0.2 gallons).
To make your own bailer from a plastic jug, refer to Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide.

Non-Manual Bilge Pumps

Some pleasure craft are equipped with non-manual bilge pumps and water level detection systems.
These bilge pumps must be fitted with or accompanied by pipes or a hose long enough that water can be
pumped from the bilge space of the boat over the side of the boat.
Important
Pleasure craft operators should make sure that:
 Bilge pumping systems are functioning as intended.
 Bilge pumping systems can be accessed easily for routine maintenance.
 There is a way to detect water levels in all bilges and spaces that are below the waterline and
cannot be seen from the helm.
 Each bilge water level indicator has a light.
 All bilge water level indicators are connected to a single alarm that can be heard.
 Bilge pumping and bilge alarm systems are tested routinely.
Types of Fire-Fighting Equipment
The type and length of your pleasure craft determines what types of fire-fighting equipment, if any, you
are required to carry on board. Fire-fighting equipment includes axes, fire buckets, and fire extinguishers

Axes
Here are the requirements for axes from the Small Vessel Regulations.
 Pleasure craft up to 12 metres (39.4 feet) in length are not required to carry an axe on board.
 Pleasure craft that are more than 12 metres in length up to 24 metres (39.4 feet to 78.7 feet) in
length are required to carry one axe.
The preferred type of axe is a fireman’s axe that has a short handle and a head with a spike and a cutting
edge. On pleasure craft, any type of axe is acceptable, including a hatchet.
Store axes in a readily accessible area. In an emergency, an axe can be used to cut a tow line.

Fire Buckets
Fire buckets are carried on board pleasure craft to fight fires.
 Fire buckets must:
o Be painted red and…

o Have a capacity of at least 10 litres and…

o Be made of metal with a round bottom and a hole in the centre and…

o Have an attached lanyard that is long enough to reach the water from the location where
the bucket is stored.
 The requirements for fire buckets are found in the Small Vessel Regulations and depend on the
length of your pleasure craft.
o Pleasure craft up to 12 metres (39.4 feet) in length are not required to carry a fire bucket
on board.
o Pleasure craft that are more than 12 metres in length up to 24 metres (39.4 feet to 78.7
feet) in length are required to carry two fire buckets.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
Extinguishers are classified by letters and numbers. The numbers indicate the size of fire the extinguisher
will put out compared to other extinguishers. For example, a 10B:C extinguisher contains more chemicals
and will put out a larger fire than a 5B:C extinguisher. The letters indicate the types of fires the
extinguisher will put out.
 Class A fires are of combustible solids like wood.
 Class B fires are of flammable liquids like gasoline or oil.
 Class C fires are electrical fires.
Requirement to Carry Fire Extinguishers
Pleasure craft may be required by the Small Vessel Regulations to carry a 5B:C or a 10B:C fire
extinguisher, depending upon the type and length of the boat, and the equipment on board.
  PWCs must have one 5B:C fire extinguisher on board unless everyone on board is wearing a
lifejacket or PFD.
 Sailboats and powerboats 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length must carry one 5B:C fire
extinguisher if they are equipped with an inboard engine; a fixed fuel tank; or a fuel-burning
oven, heater, or refrigerator.
 Sailboats and powerboats over 6 metres and up to 9 metres (19.7 feet to 29.5 feet) in
length must carry:
o One 5B:C if equipped with a motor and…

o One 5B:C if equipped with a fuel-burning oven, heater, or refrigerator.

 Sailboats and powerboats over 9 metres and up to 12 metres (29.5 feet to 39.4 feet) in
length must carry:
o One 10B:C if equipped with a motor and…

o One 10B:C if equipped with a fuel-burning oven, heater, or refrigerator.

 Pleasure craft that are more than 12 metres in length up to 24 metres (39.4 feet to 78.7 feet)
in length must carry one 10B:C at each entrance to:
o Any area where a fuel-burning oven, heater, or refrigerator is located and…

o Any sleeping area and…

o The machinery space.

To be approved, a fire extinguisher must be certified and labelled by one of the following:
 U.S. Coast Guard (“Marine Type USCG Approved”) or…
 Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) or…
 Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
Fire extinguishers should be placed in an easily accessible area on board the pleasure craft.

Keep Fire Extinguishers Usable and Accessible

Extinguishers should be placed in an accessible area—not near the engine or in a compartment, but where
they can be reached immediately. Be sure you know how to operate them.
Fire extinguishers must be maintained in usable condition. Inspect extinguishers regularly to ensure the
following.
 Seals and tamper indicators are not broken or missing.
 Pressure gauges or indicators read in the operable range.
 There is no physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzles.

Fire Extinguisher Charge Indicators

Check the charge level of your fire extinguishers regularly. Replace them immediately if they are not
fully charged.

To check this style of extinguisher, depress the green button. If it is fully charged, the green button should
pop back out immediately.
On this style of fire extinguisher, the needle indicator should be in the “full” range.

Ignition-Protection Device
Because boat engines may backfire, the Small Vessel Regulations require that every pleasure craft that is
fueled with gasoline or uses propane devices must have ignition-protected electrical devices. These parts
are designed to keep sparks from escaping, preventing the ignition of gasoline or propane vapours in case
the engine backfires.
 All ignition-protected electrical components that you use should be labelled as ignition-protected
parts.
 Make sure that your pleasure craft is serviced by a certified marine technician if it has:
o A car or truck engine that has been converted for marine use or…

o Engine parts that may not be ignition-protected.

Ventilation Systems
Ventilation systems are crucial. Their purpose is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases.
Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion.
 The Small Vessel Regulations require that all gasoline-powered boats, constructed in a way that
would entrap vapours, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the
vapours. At least one exhaust duct must extend from the open atmosphere to the lower bilge. At
least one intake duct must extend from a point at least midway to the bilge or below the level of
the carburetor air intake.
 If your pleasure craft is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four
minutes in either of these situations:
o After fueling

o Before starting the engine

 If your pleasure craft is not equipped with a power ventilation system (for example, a personal
watercraft), open the engine compartment and sniff for gasoline vapours before starting the
engine.

How Ventilation Systems Work

Powerboats are built to ventilate the engine when underway. As the boat moves along, an air intake
scoops up fresh air and forces it down the air duct into the engine compartment. The exhaust sucks out the
explosive vapours from the lowest part of the engine and fuel compartments.
Mufflers and Engine Shut-Off Lines
Mufflers
Pleasure craft operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not adequately muffled.
According to the Small Vessel Regulations:
 The exhaust of every pleasure craft that is equipped with a motor must be muffled effectively
while operating within five nautical miles (9.26 km) of shore.
 Your pleasure craft is exempt if:
o It has an unmodified stock outboard engine or…

o It was built before January 1, 1960, or…

o It is being used in an official competition, or in formal training or final preparation for an

official competition.
Engine Shut-Off Lines
The purpose of an engine shut-off line is to shut off the PWC’s engine if the operator falls off the PWC or
is thrown from the proper operating position.
When operating a PWC, you must attach the engine shut-off line securely to your wrist, lifejacket, or
PFD. This ensures that your PWC stays close if you fall overboard.

Visual Signals
Visual signals allow vessel operators to signal for help in the event of an emergency. The Criminal Code
of Canada prohibits sending false distress signals. Visual signals include watertight flashlights and
distress flares.

Watertight Flashlights
A watertight flashlight is a useful electric distress signal at night. You can use it to flash the international
SOS distress signal (dot dot dot dash dash dash dot dot dot) in case of an emergency. Make sure to check
your flashlight’s batteries before every outing on the water.

Distress Flares
Flares are excellent distress signals. However, there is potential for injury and property damage if not
handled properly. These devices produce a very hot flame, and the residue can cause burns and ignite
flammable materials.
 Read the manufacturer's instructions before using flares. Pistol-launched and hand-held parachute
flares have many characteristics of a firearm and must be handled with caution.
 Make sure that you fire aerial flares into the wind at an angle. In strong winds, keep the firing
angle at less than 45 degrees.
 Approved flares have a Transport Canada approval stamp or label. Look for the date of
manufacture, which is stamped on every flare. Flares are good for four years from that date.
Properly dispose of flares that are past their expiration date.
 Distress flares should be stored vertically in a readily accessible, cool, dry, and prominently
marked location.

Types of Approved Distress Flares

There are four types of approved distress flares:
 Type A: Rocket parachute flare (red)
  Type B: Multi-star flare (red)
 Type C: Hand-held flare (red)
 Type D: Smoke signal—buoyant or hand-held (orange)

Type A: Rocket Parachute Flare (red)

Type B: Multi-Star Flare (red)

Type C: Hand-Held Flare (red)

Type D: Smoke Signal—Buoyant or Hand-Held (orange)

Requirements to Carry Visual Signals

Most pleasure craft must carry visual signals.
 These are the requirements from the Small Vessel Regulations.
o Pleasure craft 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length and equipped with a motor must
have:
 3 type A, B*, C, or D flares (no more than 1 type D) or…
 A watertight flashlight.
o Sailboats and powerboats over 6 metres and up to 9 metres (19.7 feet to 29.5 feet) in
length must have:
 6 type A, B*, C, or D flares (no more than 2 type D) and…
 A watertight flashlight.
o Sailboats and powerboats over 9 metres and up to 12 metres (29.5 feet to 39.4 feet)
in length must have:
 12 type A, B*, C, or D flares (no more than 6 type D) and…
 A watertight flashlight.
o Sailboats and powerboats over 12 metres and up to 24 metres (39.4 feet to 78.7 feet)
in length must have:
 12 type A, B*, C, or D flares (no more than 6 type D) and…
  A watertight flashlight.
 You are exempt from the flare requirements if your pleasure craft:
o Cannot operate more than 1 nautical mile (1.852 km) from shore when boating on a river,
canal, or lake or…
o Has no sleeping accommodations and is involved in an official competition or in final
preparation for an official competition.
 For pleasure craft more than 6 metres in length, you may be able to reduce the number of flares
up to 50 percent (as long as the number of type D flares is not more than 50 percent of the
permitted number) if the pleasure craft is equipped with:
o A means of two-way radio communication or…

o A 406 MHz personal locator beacon, as issued under subparagraph 5(1)(a)(iv) of

the Radiocommunication Act, worn by the pleasure craft operator or…
o A 406 MHz emergency position-indicating radio beacon
buoyant heaving line: A floating rope that has a soft buoyant object on one end
lifebuoy: A throwable type of flotation device with a line attached; the line is used to pull the lifebuoy
once it has been thrown to a person in the water
lifejacket: An inherently buoyant flotation device that is designed to be worn
personal flotation device (PFD): A buoyant lifesaving apparatus, other than a lifejacket, that is meant to
be worn
reboarding device: A ladder, lifting harness, or other device that does not include any part of the vessel’s
propulsion unit and that helps a person get into the pleasure craft from the water
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) lifejacket Type of lifejacket that provides the most buoyancy, is excellent
for flotation, and will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water within seconds
standard type lifejacket: Type of lifejacket that will turn most unconscious wearers face up in the water,
but the turning is not as pronounced as with a SOLAS lifejacket
backfire To undergo an explosion of prematurely ignited fuel or of unburned exhaust gases in an internal
combustion engine