Fall boating requires more care, group reminds Islanders

An Island group has joined with the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC) to offer tips on how to stay safe on the water during the fall season.

The CSBC and the Souris and Area Branch of P.E.I. Wildlife Federation are reminding boaters to check the weather forecast as the mix of warm and cold air can quickly spawn high winds and waves that make it treacherous for small boats. Also, should boaters find themselves in a fog bank, they should proceed slowly and sound their horn at regular intervals to alert other boaters of their presence.

Daytime temperatures can occasionally be balmy, but dressing for the water temperature will help slow the onset of hypothermia should a boater unexpectedly end up in the water. Accidental cold-water immersion can be shocking, but people shouldn’t panic. It may take a minute or so to get their breathing under control, but they will have at least 10-15 minutes, even in very cold water, to affect self-rescue before they start to lose muscle control in their arms and legs. This is where an approved lifejacket is an essential part of a boater’s wardrobe to keep them afloat after they can no longer swim.

In the fall, there are fewer other boats on the water to offer assistance, if needed. Boaters should be sure to leave a float plan with a responsible person on shore who will know what to do if they’re overdue. A marine radio or cell phone will allow them to call for assistance, if needed.

Having a few tools and spare parts aboard will help fix minor problems that might lead to being stranded on the water. It is also important that boaters ensure their boats and engines are in good shape and mechanically sound.

Ethanol-based fuel can allow water contamination in the tank. The use of a fuel additive prevents water in the fuel line from freezing, which could cause the engine to chug to a halt. If the boat has portable fuel tanks, it’s a good idea to have a spare on board as a reserve.