Appreciating Ontario’s abundance of beautiful lakes is one of the most fun and relaxing Canadian activities to enjoy during the summer. While we all adore these types of activities, many are unaware of the many required items that must be present while using or aboard a self-propelled pleasure craft.
A self-propelled pleasure craft is any self propelled marine vehicle that is used solely for the enjoyment of the user. This category includes kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and rowboats.
Many think that as long as they have a lifejacket on their pleasure craft, they are good to enjoy our lakes. That is not actually true, and being unaware of what you must have present while in control of a pleasure craft could lead to easily preventable injuries and fines.
While operating any of the aforementioned pleasure crafts, you must have the following items onboard to keep everyone safe and to avoid fines:
- A properly fitting PFD or Lifejacket for all people onboard
- One buoyant heaving line
- A waterproof flashlight
- A bail bucket or bilge pump
- A sound signalling device like a pealess whistle
- A magnetic compass
One common misconception about pleasure crafts involves whether or not you need a boating licence or proof of competency to use a self-propelled craft. The simple rule to remember is as long as your craft is not powered by a motor of any kind, you do not need a licence or proof of competency to operate it. A proof of competency is required for every and all motorised pleasure crafts.
Being aware and prepared with these required materials is a great first step to ensuring you avoid unnecessary fines, and helping keep everyone aboard your craft safe. Stay safe and enjoy our beautiful lakes and rivers this summer!
