Boating Safety Blog
What to do if your boat runs aground
December 15, 2022
Running aground is one of the most common boating accidents. Largely due to poor nautical chart reading, shallow waters and uncertain weather conditions, these accidents can happen in a matter of seconds. Should you find yourself in this situation, the National Boating Safety School explains what to do when your boat runs aground. 1. Assess Read more ›
How to Read a Marine Chart
December 5, 2022
When boating, the ability to read a nautical chart allows you to orient yourself on the open waters. This is a prerequisite for all boat operators to avoid being stranded. To help you understand nautical marine charts, the National Boating Safety School explains what you need to know. How important is reading a nautical chart Read more ›
Everything to know about boat trim
December 1, 2022
Trim is an essential part of a boat’s operation, especially for powerboats using an outboard motor. As part of the process of obtaining a boat license and before hitting the water, you need to understand how trim works and how to use it. What is boat trim? The trim is an electronically controlled part Read more ›
How Does a Boat Float?
November 25, 2022
The question of how a boat floats is one most of us have asked ourselves at some point, particularly when seeing massive cargo ships gliding serenely across the water. The answer is actually quite simple, and follows basic physical and structural principles. In this article, the National Boating Safety School explains the principles that govern Read more ›
Types of Diving Flags: What Do They Look Like and What Do They Mean?
November 20, 2022
In Canada, diving usually takes place during the summer, when the water is warmer and it’s a good time to explore local aquatic wildlife. Unfortunately, this enjoyable pastime can be dangerous, since divers are usually sharing the waterways with plenty of boaters. To minimize the risk of accidents, Transport Canada has implemented regulations requiring the Read more ›
How to Become a Boat Captain in Canada
September 21, 2022
Ship’s Captain is as much a dream job as it is a job of the future. Boating around the world and constantly interacting with diverse cultures, the sea captain remains, in the popular mind, a profession of excellence. Although this image of “captain” reigns supreme in our minds, we tend to overlook the complex and Read more ›
How to Measure a Boat Propeller
September 14, 2022
The propeller is the part of the boat that is most in contact with the water. As a result, it is the one part of the boat that is most likely to degrade quickly due to the mechanics of the engine or the salinity of the water. Before considering any change, it is important to Read more ›
Choosing the Right Emergency Rescue Beacon to Call for Help on a Boat
September 7, 2022
To enjoy boating, you need to take to the water under the right conditions and with the right equipment, including an emergency rescue beacon. No matter how carefully you study charts, learn to drive your boat and check for small craft advisories, marine hazards can still pose a threat. From changing weather or human error, Read more ›
All About Strong Wind Warnings for Boaters in Canada
August 22, 2022
No matter your boating experience, dealing with strong winds is a challenge. It can be especially dangerous on the water when strong winds start up suddenly. To stay safe, marine safety organizations are ready to provide wind and weather information before and during your ventures out to sea. In this article, we explain the types Read more ›
Boat Safely with Reboarding Devices
August 15, 2022
A reboarding device is a necessary safety feature for boats, regardless of if you plan to swim out on the water. For the navigation of Canadian waters, the boating safety experts at the National Boating Safety School explain the importance of boat reboarding devices. What is a reboarding device? A reboarding device is a safety device. Read more ›