BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Completing a Pre-Departure Checklist before getting underway is an excellent way to ensure that you have all of the required safety equipment on board, and that you are properly prepared for your boating trip.

You should always use a Pre-Departure Checklist to ensure that your boat has the right safety equipment onboard. It only takes a few minutes to fill out your checklist and it is time well spent!

Click here to download a BOATsmart! Pre-departure Checklist!

You can use your Pre-Departure Checklist as a discussion prompt to help familiarize your passengers (guests) with the following:

• How to operate the boat in case of emergency
• The location of the boat’s emergency kit
• How to rescue a person who has fallen overboard
• How to properly use an approved lifejacket or PFD

 To prevent being in an emergency situation, operators are responsible for ensuring they have the boating experience and skill level for the planned trip, before leaving the dock. 

Instructing your Passengers (Guests)

As a boat operator, it is important to talk to your passengers (guests) before you leave the dock. You are responsible for instructing your passengers (guests) to:

• Always wear an approved lifejacket or PFD
• Be aware of the effects of being on the water including sunlight, motion, waves, wind and sound
• Stay close to the centerline and as low as possible when moving around the boat, and keep hands and feet inside the boat at all times
• Refrain from consuming alcohol while onboard

Several boating safety organizations, including the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, offer free courtesy checks for boats to help operators ensure that they have the proper safety equipment onboard!