You may have crossed Upper Arrow Lake on our newest ferry, the M.V. Columbia, or witnessed river power at work on the Lytton Reaction Ferry, all the while marvelling at the beauty of BC’s waterways and natural surrounds…
But have you ever thought about what you would do if one of our river and lake-crossing inland ferries had problems during the trip?
If you haven’t, relax – we have you covered. Our vessels transporting passengers on our 14 inland ferry routes are fully equipped to protect everyone aboard, with everything needed in an emergency – from life jackets and life rafts to fire detectors and extinguishers. Inland ferries and crew follow regulations set out by Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security.
Here’s what you can do:
- Get familiar with how to put on and secure a lifejacket as shown here and in the video, below.
- Locate where the life jackets are kept on the vessel you’re sailing with. You’ll find them in a clearly marked storage locker(s), which will also have a diagram showing how to put on the life jackets inside (not all lifejackets are the same).
- Stake out the muster station(s), so you know where to gather with other passengers, if necessary.
In the unlikely event of an emergency, information and instructions will be provided by the crew (in person and/or via the public address system) who will carry out pre-established safety procedures.
More than 2.3 million passengers and 1.4 million vehicles travel on our inland ferries each year, and our ferry operators ensure they sail safely from shore to shore. Please do your part and check out the safety signs and equipment next time you’re aboard.
Join the discussion