Travelling South of the Border

No one plans for an accident to happen while boating, but if it did, are you prepared? Is there a first aid kit on board? Is it easily accessible and fully stocked? Does anyone on board even know how to use it?

Could you be the hero, or will you be just a bystander? Safety can be a hard sell. In Vancouver, Western Marine Company’s Alan Stovell said simply, “There is no requirement for first aid kits for recreational boaters.”

He points out while commercial boaters must abide by strict regulations based on the crew and voyage there are no such restrictions for pleasure boaters in Canada, although it’s certainly recommended.

Two simple words really. We’ve all heard ’em. Sound pretty d’urn simple – at least in practice. Of course, when things go south keeping a level head or a steady hand are easier said than done. And if worse comes to worst, panicking makes it even…worse, if that’s possible.

While the Office of Boating Safety, Transport Canada surprisingly does not list binoculars as part of its mandatory safety equipment, we would suggest that having a good pair on board just makes good sense. Binoculars designed specifically for marine use are traditionally stronger in structure and are, of course, waterproof – or should be. In fact, some models even float. Today, we are going to highlight the key criteria for selecting a pair of binoculars as well as share a few neat features and accessories.

It happens every year.  The minute the thermometer reaches over 10 or 12 degrees you see them.  Canadians emerge from winter hibernation.  Yes!  Finally the warm sun is back again!  Venturing out, we usually think of the sunscreen with the best SPF money can buy, and perhaps a hat … as long as it doesn’t cramp our style, and sunglasses … again something stylish.  But little thought goes into why these are necessary.