07/23/2026
Wow, 200 Paddleboarders were stopped by police for not having their transport Canada required gear.
PFD aka "lifejacket"
Bailing device/pump (for small boats such as a canoe or kayak)
Whistle
15 meter buoyant heaving line
If paddling at night a light is also required
We sell all of your transport canada required gear https://www.cvkayaks.com/online-store
If you're heading onto the lake without a lifejacket, without checking conditions, or while impaired, you're putting yourself and others at risk. Every year, emergency crews respond to incidents on the lake involving folks with stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) who underestimate the water or weather, overestimate their abilities, or ignore basic safety precautions. Drowning can happen faster and quieter than most people realize, so before heading out on your SUP, the want to remind paddlers:
🛟 it is MANDATORY to either wear a personal flotation device (PFD) with a whistle OR carry a PFD, whistle, and floating throw rope on board (Transport Canada supports leash use but NOT as a replacement for lifejackets and PFD's)
🛟 inflatable PFD's are prohibited for people who are under 16 years of age (those under 16 still must wear an alternative type of PFD)
🛟 try to paddle with a partner and always let someone know where you're going
🛟 pay attention to marked swim lines and floating barriers that indicate deep water
🛟 beware of other lake traffic including boats and Sea-Doos
🛟 monitor for weather changes - winds can change rapidly and can easily blow a SUP off course
🛟 stay close to shore, especially if you are inexperienced or there's windy conditions
Remember, a paddleboard is NOT just a pool floatie - it's a personal watercraft and should be treated with the same level of responsibility as any other vessel. Paddleboarding is meant to be fun, but the risks are real, so please make smart choices to keep yourself and everyone around you safe and sound.
