CSBC Launches Safe Boating Awareness Week with Five Key Messages for a Safer Summer on the Water
TORONTO — As Canadians prepare to hit the water for the Victoria Day long weekend, the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC) is once again urging the public to make safety a top priority during its annual Safe Boating Awareness Week, which runs nationally in partnership with boating groups, safety advocates, and Transport Canada.
With over 16 million Canadians enjoying recreational boating each year—and boating activity increasing significantly since the pandemic—the CSBC says it’s more important than ever to reinforce good habits on the water.
This year’s campaign centers around five core safety messages:
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Wear Your Lifejacket
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Boat Sober
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Be Prepared: You and Your Vessel
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Take a Boating Course
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Be Cold Water Safe
“Safe boating isn’t just a week-long focus – it’s a year-round commitment,” said Peter Heard, Chair of the Canadian Safe Boating Council. “Whether it’s a leisurely cruise or a thrilling adventure, always wear your lifejacket and ensure everyone on board does too.”
The CSBC emphasizes that the top priority for 2025 is lifejacket use. Despite years of awareness campaigns, many boating fatalities in Canada still involve individuals who were not wearing a personal flotation device. The organization encourages all boaters—regardless of age, vessel type, or experience level—to wear a lifejacket whenever they are underway.
The campaign has drawn endorsements from several national safety organizations:
“Sailing is a pleasure and a privilege. Make sure you are trained, have all required safety equipment on board, respect other users on the water, and protect the environment,” said Josée Côté, General Manager of Nautisme Québec.
“When people think about driving impaired, they think about a car on the road. But operating a boat while impaired is just as dangerous and illegal,” added Tanya Hansen Pratt, National President of MADD Canada.
“It’s important for both new and seasoned paddlers to be safe while enjoying time outdoors,” said Michelle McShane, Executive Director of Paddle Canada.
With boating season already underway, the CSBC is encouraging Canadians to spread the word by sharing resources and safety videos available on their website at csbc.ca.
Safe Boating Awareness Week is supported by Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety and remains a cornerstone event for CSBC and its many partners.
🌊 GTA Today encourages all readers planning long weekend getaways to make safety their first destination. Follow GTA Today on social media for more local news.
