Please read all of the information below. Your safety is of the highest priority.
Each class of students is supervised on the water by instructors in power boats. BHYC uses VHF marine radios in the boats and in the Clubhouses so that the Head Instructor can communicate with the instructors in the event of sudden changes of weather or other problems. The Canadian Coast Guard monitors VHF marine radio also. Each student MUST provide a DOT approved PFD or Lifejacket* which MUST be worn at all times on or near the water. (Note that inflatable PFDs are NOT acceptable in ANY of our courses) To avoid foot injuries, students MUST wear shoes at all times, and it is strongly recommended that these are of a closed toe style.
For the safety of everyone, students must follow behaviour guidelines laid down by instructors. Behaviour which endangers other students may result in expulsion from a course.
Have fun on the water - don't take risks. Drowning can be permanent.
*PFDs and Lifejackets are both acceptable. A lifejacket is designed to turn an unconscious person onto their back, and must be red or yellow. It will have some kind of collar. A PFD will not necessarily turn a person onto their back, and can be a variety of colours. Make sure the PFD or lifejacket fits - especially for young children. Many people find the PFD style less restrictive of movement than the lifejacket. Do not buy a keyhole style - they are far too restrictive.
A label inside the PFD or lifejacket should identify it as a "Personal Flotation Device" or a "Small Vessel Lifejacket", give the sizes and weights the jacket fits, and will have an approval number. These cost a lot less than the inflatable variety too!
PFDs and lifejackets are available in yacht chandleries (locally, Dock 16 in Bronte Harbour, West Marine on Cornwall Rd.) as well as in Canadian Tire, and some larger department stores.