We don’t just respond to emergencies
We work to prevent them
We want to make sure that families and children make it home safely after a day on the water. That’s why we provide boating safety information, pleasure craft safety checks, and a loaner program for kids’ lifejackets at many docks and marinas.
Kids Don’t Float
Going boating? Hanging around a dock? Grab a lifejacket! Dozens of marinas around B.C. now have RCMSAR “Kids Don’t Float” boards with free loaner lifejackets for children. Since 2003 the program has been supported by police, municipalities, marinas and community groups to make sure that kids are safe around the docks and on the water.
Pleasure Craft Safety Checks
Not sure what safety gear you need? RCMSAR offers free safety checks for small craft operators. Our members will be happy to visit your boat at the dock and provide a courtesy check. They’ll make sure you have the safety equipment you need to comply with various safety regulations and stay safe in the environment where you’ll be boating.
It’s free, quick, and confidential.
Watch for our volunteers and their signs at your local marina, or call your local RCMSAR station for more information.
Promoting Safety on the Water
RCMSAR volunteers promote on water safety by participating in community events.
Stations will attend with their vessels and equipment and also have land-based mobile displays and volunteers that are available to talk about SAR prevention, safety on the water, and to promote community-based interagency initiatives.
Pictured: North Vancouver Station members brief Prime Minister Trudeau and the Duchess of Cambridge on community SAR prevention initiatives.