BOATsmart! Base de connaissances du Canada
Module 07 - Emergency Preparedness
Understanding and Using Distress Signals
Pleasure craft operators must be able to recognize, use and properly exhibit distress signals as required by the Small Vessel Regulations.
Depending on the size of your craft, and whether you are operating a power or sail-driven vessel, you are required to carry certain types of distress signals.
Remember:
It is an offence to make or report a fake distress signal. Sending false distress signals takes time away from Search and Rescue Organizations, making them unavailable or farther away from real emergencies.
It is an offence to make or report a fake distress signal. Sending false distress signals takes time away from Search and Rescue Organizations, making them unavailable or farther away from real emergencies.
You are required to render assistance to any person, vessel or aircraft that signals distress. You are also required to offer assistance if you respond to a distress call and are asked by the vessel in distress to render assistance. If it is unreasonable (unsafe) to offer assistance, you are not required to help.
