Boating Safety Information
Canadian Coast Guard Operator Proficiency Card
All operators of power driven vessels will need to acquire a Canadian Coast Guard Operator Proficiency Card (CCGOPC). Once attained, this card is good for life and requires no re-certification.
The following table outlines this legislation.
Please note the dates when CCGOPC cards are required - you may need your card now!
| Operator Competency Requirements |
|
Age - Horsepower Restrictions |
| How this applies to operators** of pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes |
Date at which proof of competency is required on board |
How this applies to operators of pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes |
Power restrictions as of April 1/99 |
| All operators born after March 31, 1983 |
September 15, 1999 |
Under 12 years of age, and not directly supervised** |
Can operate a vessel with no more than 10 hp (7.5 KW) |
| All operators of craft under 4 m in length, including personal watercraft |
September 15, 2002 |
Between 12 years and under 16 years of age, and not directly supervised ** |
Can operate a vessel with no more than 40 hp (30 KW) |
| All operators |
September 15, 2009 |
Under 16 years of age |
Not allowed to operate a PWC*** |
* These requirements apply in area outside the Northwest and Nunavut Territories at this time.
** Applies to non-residents operating their pleasure craft in Canadian waters after 45 consecutive days. Operator card or equivalent issued to a non-resident by their state or country will be considered as proof of competency. |
16 years of age and over |
No power restrictions |
* These requirements apply in areas outside the Northwest and Nunavut Territories at this time.
** Directly supervised means: accompanied and directly supervised in the boat by a person 16 years of age or older
*** Personal Watercraft |
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold to the point that the body cannot keep itself warm. As the body temperature lowers, the blood vessels near the skin contract in order to move wam blood to the center of the body, thus keeping the vital organs warm and reducing the amount of heat that can escape from the skin. Factors such as air temperature, humidity, wind and whether skin is wet or dry all contribute to how much exposure is needed before a person experiences the signs and symptoms of this medical condition.
For more information on hypothermia, its effects and treatments, please visit the following links:
Hypothermia.org
Hypothermia-ca.com
Weather links
Be sure to always check the weather before you go boating, and while boating if possible
The Weather Network
Environment Canada
National Weather Service - Buffalo, New York