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Passenger safety on small commercial boats
Going for a boat ride can be fun and exciting, but accidents can
happen. You should be prepared.
If you're a passenger on a small commercial vessel --
like a charter fishing vessel or tour boat -- here are some safety tips you
should know:
- Small commercial vessel operators are required to provide a safety
briefing to all passengers about safety equipment and emergency procedures
-- it's the law. Make sure the operator provides this safety briefing, and
listen carefully.
- If there are children in your party, tell the boat operator in advance how
many there are, and their ages.
- Make sure the operator has the proper number of lifejackets, and
sufficient lifejackets of the right size for all children on board when you
board the vessel.
- Whenever you're on a boat, know where the lifejackets and survival craft
are, and plan what to do in the event of an emergency.
- You should also ask the boat operator if they have a valid inspection
certificate from Transport Canada.
Transport Canada is responsible for the licensing of commercial vessels,
including tour boats and river rafts. In addition, the department develops
regulations for the safe operation of these vessels. Transport Canada regularly
monitors and enforces compliance with these regulations to verify that vessels
are properly staffed and able to carry out emergency duties. The department's
Marine Safety inspectors have a good knowledge of the shipping industry and
practices for ship safety and the protection of our marine environment. Not only
do they enforce specific regulations, they are also able to recognize an unsafe
situation and provide advice to correct it.
While Transport Canada regulates commercial operators to verify they meet all
applicable safety standards and regulations, safety is a shared responsibility.
Passengers should also take precautionary measures to enhance their own safety
while out on a tour.
Next time you board a commercial vessel, make sure you get the information
you need to survive an emergency.
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