Safe Boating Awareness Week – 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: May 14, 2026

Embark Safely: Safe Boating Awareness Week

Canada-wide: May 16 to May 22, 2026

WEST HAWK LAKE, MB – As Manitobans prepare to head back onto the water for the first long weekend of the season, the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC), the Manitoba Coalition for Safer Waters and Lifesaving Society Manitoba are launching Safe Boating Awareness Week—a nationwide campaign promoting safe and responsible boating.

Canada’s passion for boating remains strong, with more than 12 million Canadians enjoying time on the water each year. While this widespread participation is encouraging, boating-related incidents continue—highlighting the need for increased safety awareness and education.

To help keep Canadians safe on the water, the CSBC and its partners are reinforcing five key safety messages:

1. Wear Your lifejacket
2. Boat Sober
3. Be prepared, You and Your Vessel
4. Take a Boating Course
5. Be Cold Water Safe

These simple but critical practices are designed to reduce preventable incidents and ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable boating season.

“Safe boating isn’t just a week-long focus – it’s a year-round commitment. Whether it’s a leisurely cruise or a thrilling adventure, always wear your lifejacket and ensure everyone on board does too.” – Peter Heard, Chair, Canadian Safe Boating Council

“We know that time spent outdoors is good for us, both physically and mentally. Outdoor activity continues to thrive, especially in paddling, and it is important for new and seasoned paddlers to be safe while enjoying their time on the water.” – Michelle McShane, Executive Director, Paddle Canada

“This province has some of the best parks, beaches and bodies of water in the country. I’m encouraging all Manitobans to get out and enjoy these attractions safely.” – Lynne Stefanchuk, Manitoba Coalition for Safer Waters Chair & Lifesaving Society Manitoba Executive Director

Safe Boating Awareness Week is promoted by the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC) and Lifesaving Society Manitoba, registered charities, with support from its members, partners and Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety.

For additional information on boating safety, visit CSBC.ca.

May 15, 2026, is Wear Your Lifejacket to Work Day across North America.  You are encouraged to wear your lifejacket to work as a reminder, lifejackets save lives.

 

MEDIA EVENT – WEST HAWK LAKE, MB – FRIDAY MAY 15, 1 PM

Join Lifesaving Society Manitoba, Manitoba RCMP, Manitoba Parks, and other Members of the Manitoba Coalition for Safer Waters at West Hawk Lake Marina to mark Safe Boating Awareness Week.  There will be rescue watercraft on site.

 

– 30 –