BOATING SAFETY DURING THE FALL FOOD FISHERY

ST. JOHN'S, Sept. 20 /CNW Telbec/ - Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety is reminding boaters in Newfoundland and Labrador to take extra care and use caution during the annual fall food fishery that will take place from September 25 to October 3, 2010. It is important to respect the power of the ocean surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador. Remember that every trip begins before the boater leaves the wharf.

Our water is cold year-round, so boaters should always wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) while on or near the water. Most boating fatalities are caused by a combination of cold-water shock and by not wearing a lifejacket or PFD. The law requires that boat operators carry an approved, properly fitting lifejacket or PFD for each person on board. Lifejackets and PFDs don't work unless they are worn.

Anything can happen on the water. This is why boaters must:

    
    -   Ensure that the boat is suitable for the environment it is being used
        in and understand that the size and stability of the boat is a key
        factor in determining if it is seaworthy.

    -   Tell someone where they are going and when they will be back, even if
        they are out for just a few hours. Leave a trip plan with a
        responsible person and carry relevant marine charts.

    -   Ensure that all of the safety equipment is onboard and is functioning
        properly. Check lines, flares, flashlight, bilge pump or bailer,
        navigation lights, paddles, anchor, fire extinguisher, whistle or
        horn, and lifejackets. Brief passengers about life-saving procedures,
        ensure equipment is always accessible and ensure that passengers know
        how to use it.

    -   Before starting the trip, check the weather forecast and once
        underway, watch for changing weather and water conditions, and seek
        shelter if necessary.

    -   Ensure that they have the proper communication equipment and that
        they and their passengers know how to use it in the event of an
        emergency. VHF radio channel 16 reaches many people in case of
        emergency and *16 on your cell phone will also reach search and
        rescue personnel.

    -   If operating a motorized pleasure craft, have the operator's proof of
        competency onboard at all times.

    -   Remember that boats of 10 horsepower (7.5kW) or more must have a
        valid pleasure craft licence. The licence number must be displayed on
        both sides of the bow of the pleasure craft in block characters that
        are at least 7.5 centimetres (3 inches) high, in a colour that
        contrasts with the colour of the bow. Proof of licensing must also be
        carried onboard.
    

Boaters are encouraged to do their part by observing a few simple safety rules to make this a safe, incident-free fishery.

For more information on boating safety, please call the Office of Boating Safety toll-free at 1-800-230-3693 or visit the Office of Boating Safety website at www.boatingsafety.gc.ca.

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to news releases and speeches at www.tc.gc.ca/e-news/ and keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.

This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons living with visual disabilities.

For further information: Atlantic Region Communications and Marketing, Transport Canada, 709-772-6197