Ontario is home to over 250,000 lakes and countless rivers, making it one of the best places in Canada for boating, fishing, and water sports. Whether you’re sailing on Lake Ontario, paddling in Algonquin Park, or working on a commercial vessel, the water offers adventure—but it also comes with risks.
Unlike on land, where emergency services can arrive within minutes, a medical emergency on the water can mean long wait times for help. A delay in medical attention can turn a minor injury into a serious emergency. This is why Marine First Aid training is essential—it empowers boaters and marine professionals to respond quickly and effectively in life-threatening situations.
If someone on your boat experiences a cardiac arrest, severe bleeding, or even a fall overboard, would you know what to do? Having the right first aid knowledge can mean the difference between life and death.
What is Marine First Aid?
Marine First Aid is a specialized form of first aid training designed for people who spend time on the water. Unlike general first aid, it takes into account the unique challenges of the marine environment, including:
Delayed Emergency Services – In remote areas or deep waters, getting medical help may take hours.
Limited Supplies – You may not have access to medical equipment beyond a first aid kit.
Unstable Conditions – Rough water and confined spaces can make it difficult to provide care.
Environmental Risks – Cold water, strong currents, and weather conditions can worsen injuries.
A Marine First Aid course covers critical life-saving skills specific to boating and water-based environments, including:
Drowning and Near-Drowning Response – How to safely rescue someone and perform CPR in water-related emergencies.
Hypothermia & Cold Water Shock Treatment – How to recognize and treat cold-related illnesses common in Ontario’s waters.
Wound Care & Bleeding Control – How to manage cuts, fractures, burns, and other injuries common on boats.
CPR & AED Use on the Water – How to perform resuscitation in confined spaces.
Seasickness & Dehydration Management – Preventing and treating nausea, dizziness, and heat exhaustion.
These skills aren’t just for professional mariners—every Ontario boater should know Marine First Aid to stay safe on the water.
Is Marine First Aid Required in Ontario?
For recreational boaters, Marine First Aid isn’t mandatory—but it’s highly recommended. Accidents on the water can escalate quickly, and knowing what to do in an emergency could save the life of a family member, friend, or fellow boater.
However, Transport Canada requires Marine First Aid certification for certain marine professionals. If you work in the boating industry, you may need certification to comply with safety regulations.
Who Needs Marine First Aid Certification in Ontario?
Commercial Boat Operators – Captains and crew of passenger boats, ferries, and transport vessels.
Fishing Vessel Crew Members – Individuals working on commercial fishing boats.
Tour Guides & Outdoor Leaders – Kayaking, canoeing, and adventure tour operators.
Sailing Instructors & Coaches – Professionals who teach recreational and competitive sailing.
If your job involves working on the water, Marine First Aid certification is likely required by law. Even if you’re a weekend boater, having this training ensures you’re always prepared.
Top Marine First Aid Tips for Ontario Boaters
Emergencies on the water happen fast and unexpectedly. Whether you’re on Lake Superior, the St. Lawrence River, or a quiet inland lake, these Marine First Aid tips can keep you prepared:
1. Always Carry a Marine First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any boat. Your kit should include:
✔ Waterproof bandages & dressings
✔ Antiseptic wipes & wound-cleaning solutions
✔ Cold packs for swelling & injuries
✔ Motion sickness medication
✔ CPR mask & disposable gloves
✔ Emergency thermal blanket (for hypothermia prevention)
Store your first aid kit in a dry, easily accessible place and check it regularly to replace expired items.
2. Know the Signs of Hypothermia & Cold Water Shock
Ontario’s waters stay cold even in summer. If someone falls overboard, they could suffer from cold water shock or hypothermia within minutes.
Signs of Hypothermia:
- Shivering and confusion
- Slurred speech and drowsiness
- Clumsy movements and loss of coordination
What to Do:
✔ Remove wet clothing and wrap the person in dry, warm layers.
✔ Get them into a warm, enclosed space as soon as possible.
✔ Do NOT rub their skin—this can make things worse.
✔ Seek emergency medical help if symptoms are severe.
3. Learn CPR & How to Use an AED on the Water
Drowning and cardiac arrest are two of the most serious medical emergencies on the water. Knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED can be the difference between life and death.
Many boaters assume CPR is the same everywhere, but performing CPR on a moving boat is different. Marine First Aid courses teach you how to:
- Perform CPR safely in unstable conditions
- Use an AED (automated external defibrillator) in a wet environment
- Position an unconscious person in a confined space on board
4. Call for Help Using Marine VHF Radio
If there’s a medical emergency, calling for help isn’t as simple as dialing 911—cell phones may not work in remote areas.
Use VHF Radio Channel 16 to Call for Help – This is the international distress frequency.
Know Your Location – Give responders the name of the lake/river and your GPS coordinates if possible.
Use Proper Emergency Calls – Use “MAYDAY” for life-threatening emergencies and “PAN-PAN” for urgent but non-life-threatening issues.
Get Certified: Marine First Aid Courses in Ontario
The best way to prepare for an emergency?
Get trained in Marine First Aid. Whether you’re a recreational boater or a professional working on the water, a certification course gives you real-world skills to handle injuries and emergencies with confidence.
At First Aid 4U, our comprehensive Marine First Aid course teaches you how to:
✔ Respond to water-related emergencies
✔ Handle medical situations in remote areas
✔ Perform CPR and AED use on a boat
✔ Treat hypothermia, burns, wounds, and other injuries
Please note that enrollment for this course is not currently open. Contact us to request more information about future registration opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe & Be Prepared
Ontario’s waterways are beautiful but unpredictable. Whether you’re boating for fun or work, being prepared with Marine First Aid skills can save lives. By investing in a Marine First Aid course, you’re ensuring safety for yourself, your passengers, and fellow boaters.
Please note that enrollment for this course is not currently open. Contact us to request more information about future registration opportunities.
