Minister Garneau marks North American Safe Boating Awareness Week

This summer, be safe on the water!

OTTAWA, May 18, 2018 /CNW/ - The summer is a perfect time to explore our great Canadian waterways with friends and family. While boating is an enjoyable activity, too many Canadians drown each year.

To mark this year's North American Safe Boating Awareness Week, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, shared important tips for recreational boaters:

• Make sure everyone wears an approved lifejacket or personal flotation device that fits properly.           
• Do not operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Carry proof you are able to operate a motorized boat.
• Have the required safety equipment for your boat, such as paddles, a bailer to remove water, flashlight, buoyant line, anchor, etc.
• Dress for the weather and check the forecast before heading out.
• Share your sail plan with someone on shore so they can get help if you do not return on time.

Today, Minister Garneau also announced that Transport Canada is accepting applications for projects to begin in 2019-20 under the Boating Safety Contribution Program to help Canadians stay safe on the water.

The program provides up to $1 million every year to support recreational boating projects that advance boating safety awareness, focus on the importance of following safe boating practices and increase national boating incident data. Interested applicants should visit the Transport Canada website for more information.

Quote

"For many of us, this weekend marks the start of the summer boating season. North American Safe Boating Awareness Week is a great reminder that it's easy to be a hero and save lives by taking some simple safety steps while out on the water."
Honourable Marc Garneau

Quick Facts

• North American Safe Boating Awareness Week 2018, which takes place from May 19 to 25, promotes a wide range of safe boating practices to the estimated 12.4 million recreational boaters in Canada.
• Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety supports prevention-based programs and encourages safe boating practices and compliance with safety regulations.

Related Products

• Video: Be a boating super hero. It's simple with these five boating tips.

Associated Links\

• North American Safe Boating Awareness Week 
• Transport Canada Office of Boating Safety
• Transport Canada - Boating Safety Contribution Program

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SOURCE Transport Canada