Boaters Urged to Support Distress Flare Disposal Program

Boaters across Canada are encouraged to lend their support for a crucial program aimed at educating the public about safety and the disposal of expired distress flares. With regulations mandating that larger boats carry these flares, the issue of their proper disposal has become increasingly pressing. Many boat owners unknowingly retain expired flares, which can pose safety hazards due to the potential release of dangerous chemicals.

Urgent Need for Safe Disposal Options

Transport Canada previously funded a national Safety Education and Distress Flare Disposal program, enabling the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons, now known as CanBoat, to offer safe disposal solutions. This volunteer organization has trained numerous members to handle expired distress flares safely. Over the years, CanBoat has organized disposal days throughout Canada, successfully collecting an estimated 300,000 expired flares.

Despite the program’s success, CanBoat faced challenges this past summer, receiving no funding from Transport Canada, as grant money was allocated to other initiatives. In response, the CPS Foundation provided one-time funding for the 2025 Distress Flare collection program, with continued support from CIL Explosives. Without reinstatement of funding from Transport Canada, the future of the program remains uncertain.

Call to Action for Boaters

CanBoat is actively seeking funding through the Boating Safety Contribution Program to continue its educational and disposal efforts. They emphasize that community support is essential to demonstrate to Transport Canada the importance of this initiative. Boaters can help by signing a letter addressed to Minister Chrystia Freeland and Transport Canada, advocating for the reinstatement of funding for this vital program.

Community involvement is crucial at this juncture. With the grant application deadline approaching, every letter and email sent carries significant weight. Boaters are urged to take just a few minutes to complete the provided form letter to make their voices heard. The need for safe disposal of expired flares is not only a regulatory requirement but also a matter of public safety.

By participating in this initiative, boaters can contribute to a safer boating environment across Canada. For more information and to access the letter, please visit the CanBoat website.