Lake Simcoe is one of the best places for water sports, relaxing in the sun and splashing in the water to make wonderful memories all summer long.  We are so fortunate to live in a waterfront community with easy access to all of our water toys but it goes without saying that with every boating season, we all must be aware of the rules of the water.  Don’t forget these important boat safety tips this season.

• Suit up – It is required by law to have a floatation device (PFD) on board for each person on a watercraft, including human-powered boats like canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. Look for a lifejacket or PFD with a label that says it has been approved by Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, or Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Lifejackets are most effective when they’re worn properly (snug fitting and zipped up) so be sure to keep a variety of sizes on hand for guests and ask each rider to suit up before you leave the shore.
• Boat Sober – In Ontario, open alcohol containers are only allowed when the boat has a cooking and sleeping area, when there is a standalone washroom on the boat (a portable mobile toilet does not count) and the boat is moored to the dock or is at anchor.
• Boating Course – If you are operating a powered recreational vessel, you need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card.  For more information please visit:  tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/.
• Be prepared – Make sure you and your boat are up to the planned water activities you have planned.  Make yourself aware of your upcoming trip, that your boat is properly equipped with the proper safety equipment, the weather is suitable for your trip and that you have sufficient fuel.
• See and be seen – No matter which kind of boat you’re in, visibility is key. Not only do you need to make sure you have a clear view of your surroundings, but other boaters should be able to see you too. At night, make sure all of the lights on your boat are in good working order and turned on.
• Boat like you’re on the road – Many boating collisions are caused by the same factors that cause car crashes, including speed, careless or distracted driving, impaired driving and poor visibility. Be sure to bring all of your safe driving habits with you when you’re operating a boat — and if your boat has a motor, you’ll need to bring your boating license with you too.
• Insurance – Don’t forget about boat insurance. Boat insurance could protect you from a liability claim in the event of damage or theft to your own boat.
• Fishing – Do not discard your tangled line in the water or in between rocks on a jetty.  Fishing wire is often the cause of death for our water creatures.  Leave the lake exactly how you found it and dispose all of your trash in a proper garbage can.
• Watch Your Wake – A “No Wake” zone means that boats must reduce to the slowest speed they can travel while still maintaining the ability to steer and make forward progress.  Please always remember to look behind you as you ride the water to see and understand the impact of your wake on shorelines, docks, swimmers and wildlife.  To learn more about “no wake zones” we encourage you to read our blog: What Does No Wake Mean?
• Stay Clear of the Engine –  Drivers should wear the boat’s engine cut-off switch lanyard at all times. Keep watch around the propeller area when people are in the water. Never allow passengers to board or exit your boat from the water when engines are on—or idling. Take extra precautions near boats towing skiers or tubers.

One of the most important parts of boating safety is to know the rules of the water and to use common sense. This means operating at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas. Be alert at all times, and steer clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there for one reason only- to ensure your own boating safety.

Don’t ruin a great day on the water by making a mistake.   Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as you pass through our beautiful community and head out to the lake.