Transport Canada has launched a consultation process to consider the mandatory wearing of PFDs or lifejackets for recreational boaters. As recreational boaters, we know how to be safe on the water and it is crucial that our community stands together and advocates for solutions that make sense. Mandating PFDs in all cases will lead to resistance rather than compliance in the boating community, so we must advocate for non-regulatory solutions where possible, while advocating for increased water safety overall.
We must encourage Transport Canada to ensure there is a formal consultation process with boaters before any future restrictions are implemented, and we must look for non-regulatory solutions.
Dear Transport Canada,
As your survey does not allow for the selection of options beyond support for the mandatory use of PFDs and lifejackets, I am writing to provide my input on the consultation and trust that it will be given the same consideration as survey responses. As an avid recreational boater, I appreciate Transport Canada’s efforts to enhance safety on our waterways. When it comes to mandating the use of PFDs, I encourage you to adopt non-regulatory solutions as much as possible and respect the choices of mature boaters. Mandatory regulations do not guarantee compliance, but history has shown that education campaigns contribute to a culture of PFD use. Below, I outline my recommendations on the proposed measures:
1. Age for Mandatory PFD Wear
I believe that wearing a PFD or lifejacket while a recreational boat is moving would have the most impact in preventing boating deaths for individuals 12 years or younger. Children in this age group are particularly vulnerable due to their limited swimming skills and their natural tendency to panic in emergencies. By mandating PFDs for younger children, we can significantly enhance their safety and reduce the risk of drowning.
2. Size and Type of Boat for PFD Mandate
I believe that wearing a PFD should only be mandated on any human-powered vessel (canoe, kayak, etc.) and any personal watercraft.
At the same time, a three-year national law enforcement survey should be implemented to gather comprehensive data on the size and type of watercrafts involved in safety incidents. This survey will provide critical insights into the relationships between vessel size and safety outcomes, enabling policymakers to make informed, evidence-based decisions regarding the extension of mandatory PFD requirements to different vessel sizes.
3. PFD Requirements in Certain Circumstances
While I recognize the value of safety measures, requiring all recreational boaters to wear PFDs in all circumstances is not the most effective approach. Blanket regulations will not address all practical considerations and will lead to resistance rather than compliance in the boating community.
I support Transport Canada requiring recreational boaters to wear PFDs in certain circumstances. Specifically, I believe that PFDs should be mandatory on human-powered vessels, on personal watercrafts, for children under 12, and during towing water sports (for the person being towed). These targeted measures align with safety data and will address high-risk scenarios more effectively.
I encourage Transport Canada to consider these recommendations and support initiatives that combine targeted regulations with robust educational efforts. This approach will help ensure that all Canadian boaters can enjoy our waterways freely and safely.