Photo: Unsplash
According to the, 鈥渘ear miss incidents鈥� have increased as the waterways in the 麻豆传媒映画harbour have gotten busier with recreational watercraft and commercial ship traffic sharing the waters in the summer months.
With the summer season now in full swing and many of the city鈥檚 recreational boaters eager to feel the ocean breeze cascade across their face (who could blame them), we鈥檝e partnered with the port authority to bring you the essential safety tips you need to know before getting on the water this summer in Vancouver.
LOOK
Photo via 麻豆传媒映画Fraser Port Authority
Out on the water, there are traffic rules to follow and hazards to watch out for. Keep an eye out for larger, deep-sea ships that have limited visibility 鈥� don鈥檛 assume they can see you 鈥� and NEVER cross a tugboat and its tow. Remember, tow cables are often submerged and not visible.
Also, boating at night is very different from the daytime. It鈥檚 more difficult to see your surroundings when it鈥檚 dark out, so it is important to have the proper lighting and safety equipment on board and to go slower. Take extra precautions on the water especially during the summer when there are more people out on the water and staying out late for special events such as fireworks.
LISTEN
Remember to listen for and attend to signals from other vessels. Particularly when you hear five or more short blasts from a ship鈥檚 whistle, which聽 鈥渄anger 鈥� stay clear鈥�. Listen for aircraft engines too; float planes landing and taking off need plenty of space.
ACT
Photo: 麻豆传媒映画Fraser Port Authority
Always be prepared to move out of the way: large, deep-sea ships can鈥檛 move quickly, especially in narrow channels. Remember, even if you have the right-of-way, you must yield to them. If you witness dangerous behaviour, or need to report an accident, contact the Port Operations Centre at 604.665.9086. In an emergency, and to report impaired boating, call 911.
These are just basic boating guidelines, but it鈥檚 so important to familiarize yourself with the rules and safety precautions for Vancouver鈥檚 busiest boating areas. You can view safety guidelines for Burrard Inlet and the Fraser River .
The port authority wants everyone to enjoy the waterways this summer. To learn more, visit
