May 13, 2025

As summer approaches, the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC) sets sail with its annual Safe Boating Awareness Week, advocating for safe and responsible boating practices across Canada.
 
Canada’s love of boating is stronger than ever, with over 16 million Canadians taking to the waterways for recreational enjoyment. The pandemic turbocharged this passion, with a surge in new boaters; boat sales in Canada rose by approximately 40% during this time. A rise in boating-related incidents has also been noted, signaling a need for heightened safety awareness and education.

To steer boaters towards safety, the CSBC and its partners underscore five boating safety messages:

            • Wear Your lifejacket

            • Boat Sober  

            • Be prepared, You and Your Vessel

            • Take a Boating Course

            • Be Cold Water Safe

These messages aim to mitigate common boating-related incidents and ensure a safe journey on the water.

This year, the focus will be on the importance of always wearing your lifejacket. The CSBC believes that lifejackets/PFDs should be worn by any person (all ages), on board any pleasure craft (power, sail, and human-powered) while underway.
 
Throughout Safe Boating Awareness Week, the CSBC collaborates with boating and water safety groups, relying on Canadian media to amplify these critical safety messages.
 

“Safe boating isn’t just a week-long focus – it’s a year-round commitment. Whether it’s a leisurely cruise or a thrilling adventure, always wear your lifejacket and ensure everyone on board does too.” – Peter Heard, Chair, Canadian Safe Boating Council

“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.” – Josée Côté, Directrice Générale/General Manager, 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.” – Tanya Hansen Pratt, National President, MADD Canada

“We know that time spent outdoors is good for us, both physically and mentally. Outdoor activity continues to thrive, especially in paddling, and it is important for new and seasoned paddlers to be safe while enjoying their time on the water.” – Michelle McShane, Executive Director, Paddle Canada.

Go to www.csbc.ca/en/safe-boating-awareness-week   to access videos from CSBC partners that can be downloaded by the media or shared on social media.

Safe Boating Awareness Week is a flagship event for the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC), a registered charity, with support from its members, partners, and Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety.
 
For additional information on boating safety, visit www.CSBC.ca  or www.BetterBoater.ca