Elsewhere in this issue, you will notice an announcement by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, which government department is responsible for Canada's Coast Guard. This announcement states that, as of Sept. 15 of
this year, everyone who wishes to operate powered pleasure craft less than 4 m (or 13 feet) long will need to provide proof of compe-tency. Notice that it doesn't say "boats". It says "craft" so that there will be absolutely no doubt in anybody's mind that this includes personal
water craft and other powered vessels.
Proof of competency, in this case, refers to a document called "Pleasure Craft Operator Card".
Perhaps you'll find this name just a little stilted, when "Boating License" would have done the trick, but so that there will be no misunderstanding about the watercraft, let us accept this. Let us also, before the individualists among us boaters get hot and bothered about yet another cash grab by the government, state that the card is issued by licensed private providers of the approved Safety Boating Courses offered by more than 40 companies across Canada.
The cost of the courses ranges between $40. and $100. depending on materials and length of the course taken.
Would you drive an auto mobile without having a valid driver's license? Let's assume that, being the responsible person you are, your answer will be no. Though we know that not every driver on the road is a model of responsibility, it is, nevertheless, beyond reason that just anyone,
without proper training and devoid of even basic experience can jump into a power-driven vehicle and take over the road system. The resultant carnage is unimaginable and there is no need to dwell on this potential Armageddon.
Now let us transfer this attitude to the water, where, up to now, no regulations for certification of operators of powered pleasure boats have existed. And this in spite of the fact that, while on dry land, road markers exist which even an illiterate driver will recognize and
obey, no such markers are found on many waterways, and those that do exist need explanation. Think about it. Hard. If you still disagree with the enforced licensing, you will need to watch out for a new force on the water-enforcement.
Now be honest: Wouldn't it feel much better to be a law-abiding, responsible citizen on the water, a knowledgeable, responsible boater or operator of a personal water craft? We really don't think this calls for a vote.
Just in case there remains even the slightest doubt in anyone's mind, let's think about the 6,000or so waterborne accidents that happen in this country every year, the deaths from drowning plus an even greater number of injuries, most of which could be prevented if we all behaved
responsibly?
There. That's the reason for the Boating Safety Course. And a part of the reason has to do with knowing your craft, becoming familiar with the requirements for safety equipment on board.
In the final analysis, you, and the other operators with whom you share the water, will have a better chance to live longer. That, alone, ought to be worth the price of the course. If this makes sense to you, could we suggest that you become an inspiration to your friends by taking the course now and by suggesting that they, too, should take the course? Be a leader. It will make you
feel good. What's more, it is entirely possible that, in doing so, you will have saved somebody's life somewhere, sometime in the future.
For a list of all currently accredited providers, contact the toll free Boating Safety Infoline at 1-800-267-6687, or visit their site:www.ccg-gc.ca for the list of providers.
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