Safety Boater Policies for Courses or Programs

Safety boaters are permitted for all levels of all Paddle Canada programs

Role and Limitations

The primary function of a Safety Boater is to provide safety coverage and perform rescues as directed by the course director or lead instructor.

• No Instruction: Safety boaters are strictly prohibited from instructing, teaching, or assessing participants. Their role is limited to safety and rescue support only.
• Participant Ratio: The presence of a safety boater does not increase the allowable instructor-to-participant ratio. They are considered extra and do not count as instructors or assistants for ratio calculations.

Certification and Skill Requirements

To act as a safety boater on a sanctioned Paddle Canada course, individuals must meet the following minimum standards:

• Certification Level: They must hold a current Paddle Canada skills certification equivalent to or higher than the level of the course being delivered.
• Skill Proficiency: They must demonstrate a high level of personal paddling competence and rescue skill appropriate for the course environment. The course director is responsible for vetting the safety boater’s skills prior to the course.

Membership Requirements

All Safety Boaters must hold a current, valid Paddle Canada membership. The minimum required level is at least a “Friends of Paddle Canada” membership or higher.

Responsibility

The course director retains full responsibility for the safety of the course and the actions of the safety boater. It is the course director’s responsibility to ensure the safety boater adheres to their defined scope of practice.