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Boating Safety for Hunters and Anglers (Quebec region)

No. Q002/10
For release - September 9, 2010

MONTRÉAL — Transport Canada is reminding hunters and anglers to take extra care while out on our backcountry lakes and rivers this fall. More than 40 per cent of boating deaths in the province involve hunters/anglers. Small boats are prone to swamping and capsizing on remote cold lakes, so boaters should always wear a life-jacket. Transport Canada is working with its partners, such as the police, conservation officers and federal fisheries officers, to ensure hunters and anglers are prepared for safe boating.

The majority of anglers who die while boating are not wearing a life-jacket. When a person falls overboard, a life-jacket stored under the seat won’t save the person’s life. Before heading out on the water, make sure life-jackets fit and are in good working order. Life-jackets come in a variety of styles, and many are designed specifically for hunting and fishing.

While in cold water, remember the 1 - 10 - 1 principle.

Boaters have:

• 1 minute to get their breathing under control;
• 10 minutes to use their arms and legs to stay afloat; and
• 1 hour before they become unconscious due to hypothermia.

Boaters should follow these safety tips:

• Wear your life-jacket.
• Make sure there are enough properly sized life-jackets or personal flotation devices for each person on board.
• Ensure that all safety equipment on board is in good working condition.
• Never overload a boat.
• Distribute the weight of passengers, gear and game evenly.
• Keep a low centre of gravity.

Boaters are reminded to carry proof of competency such as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card if they are operating a motorized boat.

For information on boating safety, please call the Boating Safety Infoline at 418-648-5331 or visit the Office of Boating Safety website (www.boatingsafety.gc.ca).

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Date modified:

2010-09-09

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