Yellowknife (June 02/03) - Research conducted by the Lifesaving Society reveals that most boaters are unaware of even the most basic safe boating rules.

Since boat operators don't need to complete any required courses in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, it's up to the individual boater to ensure they are competent and safe.

"When it comes to your safety on the water, only you are responsible for it," said Stephen Sherburne, central and Arctic boating safety officer of the Coast Guard.

Sherburne said being familiar with safety equipment and navigation rules plays a huge part in prevention.

"Having all the equipment is one thing, knowing how to use it is another," he said.

Although there are no restrictions dictating who can operate a boat in the NWT and Nunavut, there are regulations that set out the minimum amount of safety equipment required on boats according to the vessel length.

For example, a powered boat measuring less than six metres in length must generally include: enough properly sized lifejackets or personal flotation devices per person on board, a buoyant heaving line, a paddle or anchor, a bailer or manual water pump, a flashlight or flare gun, a fire extinguisher, sound signalling devices and navigation lights.

For exact requirements for this type of boat, and for other boat length information see the Safe Boating Guide.

"There is a potential for fines being given if people do not have the minimum required safety equipment," said Sherman.

David Gilbert, unit leader of the volunteer based Yellowknife Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, said there have been times when stranded boaters have used their cell phones to call for help because they didn't know how to use their radio.

He said the boaters were lucky their cell phone was in working range.

"Know how to make a mayday call and know your radio range and how to use it," he said.

Although GPS devices are wonderful, Gilbert said, they can be of very little use to the boater without a marine chart.

"The critical part of the equipment is the equipment the owner has in his head," he said.

Knowledge of the waterways and dangers to avoid are also important things to think about before setting out on a trip.

Keep in mind that most territorial water bodies are cold enough to quickly cause hypothermia year-round.

Sherburne said if a boater is new to the waterway all they have to do is ask someone knowledgeable for help.

Gilbert and Sherburne both agree that filling out a sail plan detailing what your boat looks like and when to expect you back is one of the most important things boaters should do.

But the most important thing boating safety experts are stressing this year is for boaters to avoid drinking and operating a boat.

"Don't cruise with booze," Sherburne recited.

Before you head out

Boating experts recommend the following pre-departure checklist:

• What is the weather forecast?
  
• Did you file a sail plan?
  
• Do you have charts?
  
• What is the condition of your vessel?
  
• Do you have the appropriate safety gear required by law for your vessel size?
  
• Do you have enough lifejackets or personal flotation devices of appropriate sizes for everyone on board?