Boating Safety

By September 15, 2009 all operators of powered pleasure craft less than 4 m (13 ft) in length, including personal water craft and boats powered by any size or type motor, need proof of competency to operate the vessel, or face a fine of $250. Proof of Competency can take any of three forms:

• Proof of having taken a boating safety course prior to April 1, 1999;

• A Pleasure Craft Operator Card from a Canadian Coast Guard accredited course provider such as Safety Afloat; or

• A completed rental safety checklist (for power-driven rental boats).

You can study the course materials for free online at the Safety Afloat web site. Once you feel you have an understanding of the rules, you can take the test for a cost of $25. To write your test or to get additional information, contact 

Ann Fex
189 Queen St.
Killaloe, Ontario
Phone: (613) 757-3975