BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

More than 40% of all boating deaths are the result of people falling overboard.

For this reason it’s important to always be prepared, and have the knowledge you need to prevent person overboard emergencies:

• Always ensure that your emergency equipment is properly maintained and readily accessible.
• Practice overboard rescue techniques with your passengers (guests) and make sure that they’re aware of their responsibilities in the event of a person overboard emergency.
• Practice positioning your boat so that you’re able to rescue a person overboard in an emergency.
• Be mindful of water surface and weather conditions during a person overboard rescue. Rough water, and severe weather could make an overboard rescue extremely difficult.