Question re: PFDs & Kids

Dogbreath

Well-Known Member
It's my understanding that PFDs are required for children under 16yo when aboard private craft right?

Here's what I wonder about-when I take tours to Porteau Cove in the AM I often see a small barge transferring kids to summer camps on the other side of Howe Sound.

Those are young school kids and few if any are over 16 and I have yet to see a PFD on any of them-and they are packed thick on that barge-them and all their gear/supplies.

I called the Coast Gaurd they said call Transport Canada Office of Boating Safety and I did-no answer so I left an email yesterday-no response I won't get one until Tuesday @ the earliest.

It's the same barge that transports stuff all over Howe Sound & area so maybe they have a licence to transport humans too-one without PFDs-like BC Ferries does.

I don't want to seem like a busybody by marching down the ramp and demanding answers from the operator but neither do I want to see a tragedy happen.

Anyone out there have any info on this kind of situation?

TIA
 
If the barge is licensed to carry passengers by Transport Canada then the barge will carry Lifejackets not PFDs. Passengers are not required to wear them regardless of age. I am unaware of any regulation that requires chidren to wear PFD's at all times on any vessel.
 
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