Be safe when boating this summer

Public Service Announcement

Be safe when boating this summer

Start Date: June 30, 2016

End Date: September 30, 2016

Nunavut-wide 60 sec

Summer is a busy time of year for boating and fishing activities. Nunavummiut are reminded to follow these safe boating tips when heading out on the water:

• Be alert and pay attention to your surroundings including existing ice conditions – conditions can change quickly, be ready for it.
• Inspect your boat – make sure equipment is in good working order before leaving.
• Monitor the weather – check marine weather reports for the area to which you are travelling.
• Make a sail plan – leave trip details with someone, including the estimated date or time of return, and the names of passengers on board.
• Bring extra supplies – bring enough fuel, food and water for each person on board for 72 hours in case of an unexpected delay.
• Wear life-jackets – carry Canadian-approved life-jackets or PFDs for all passengers on board. These should be worn at all times, especially in smaller boats.
• Carry safety equipment – carry all equipment required by Transport Canada, including:
          - life buoys and heaving line
          -watertight flashlights
          -bailers or bilge pumps
          -distress flares and sound-signalling device (horn)
          -fire extinguisher
          -radio and marine emergency locator beacon.

Borrow a SPOT device or radio from your local RCMP, local hamlet office or HTA office. Please return the device when you are done so others may use it. Being prepared can save your life. Practice safe boating when out on the water this summer.

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Media Contact:

Kris Mullaly

Policy Analyst/Communications Officer

Department of Community and Government Services

867-975-5342

@email