Boating Safety

Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety is asking boaters to take extra care during the Celebration of Light.

All boaters watching the fireworks need to position themselves outside the perimeter marked by marine buoys. Marine buoys mark the safe perimeter only and are not to be used as mooring points. View the perimeter map.

Traditionally, over 1000 boats have navigated into English Bay for each night of the event. To ensure your own safety, observe the rules of the road and carry the proper safety equipment for your size and class of boat. Navigating at night can be challenging, especially when large numbers of boats are present and where city lights create a confusing background. If you are not thoroughly familiar with operating your boat at night please consider watching the display from the beaches instead.

Police will be on the water to enforce the laws relating to boating safety and alcohol, but boaters are encouraged to do their part. By observing a few simple safety rules boaters can contribute to a safe, incident-free event.

Remember:

  • Lifejackets
    All recreational vessels operating in Canada are required to have one Canadian-approved personal flotation device (PFD) or lifejacket of appropriate size for each person on board.
  • Pleasure Craft Operator Card
    All operators of pleasure craft under four meters in length fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes, including personal watercraft, are required to have proof of competency on board at all times.
  • Routine maintenance
    Before setting out, make sure your vessel shows proper navigation lights and the correct sequence of lights, has enough fuel for the trip and is properly maintained and in good running order. Once anchored, show anchor lights.
  • Radios
    It is a good idea to have a marine VHF radio available and make sure you know how to use it for distress communications.
  • Rules of navigation
    Review the fundamentals of navigation including other vessel lights, basic navigation aids and traffic rules so you can recognize hazards and avoid collisions with other vessels.
  • Navigation lights
    Make sure your navigation lights are working before you set out. Other vessels depend on your navigation lights to avoid collisions.
  • Canoes
    kayaks and other non-powered vessels should stay close to the shore to avoid interfering with the navigation of larger vessels. They should be fitted with red, green and white navigation lights, if they intend to operate during the fireworks.
  • Wakes
    Slow down in the confined and congested areas around the fireworks barge, and when entering False Creek. Remember to watch your wake and be considerate of other boaters.

During the show remain outside the buoyed safety zone around the fireworks barge in False Creek. This perimeter has been established for the safety of boaters before, during and after the fireworks show. Don't pick up or touch any expended fireworks or any residue on the beach or in the water.

For more information, contact:
Transport Canada - Office of Boating Safety
604-666-2681 1-800-267-6687

© 2008 Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society

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