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Coastal Safety Education

British Columbia and Yukon have some dangerous beaches. Learning about open water safety and coastline safety is important for staying safe at the beach. To learn more about Coastal Safety, the Lifesaving Society of BC & Yukon recommends taking a water safety course and following the coastal waters safety tips from CoastSmart.

CoastalSmart is a public safety pilot project in the Pacific Rim region of British Columbia. The pilot is led by Parks Canada, the District of Tofino and the District of Ucluelet and was made possible by funding from the Government of Canada. The goals of CoastSmart are to reduce public risk and enhance coastal safety, near-water and in the surf zone.

Learn More

Be CoastSmart

Near The Water

  • Take time and observe the conditions closely before you step out onto the shoreline
  • Keep an eye on the incoming waves and stay alert
  • Check the daily tidal information
  • Stay in arm’s reach of your children when near the water
  • Stay off drift logs if the tide or swell is high

In The Water

  • The Pacific Ocean is cold! Stay warmer with a wetsuit
  • Learn surf etiquette and how to navigate the surf zone
  • Stay in shallow water, unless you are trained and suited
  • Be alert to the effects of cold water
  • Know how to avoid a rip current, and how to escape one if caught

Your Coastal Adventure Begins With The Three T’s

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Trip Planning

  • Take a lesson.
  • Learn about the hazards and how to mitigate them.
  • Review this website for safety tips.
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Training

  • Plan your time. Don’t get trapped by high tides.
  • Know where you are going. Check beach signs for your location.
  • Know the terrain and check the weather and wave forecasts.
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Taking The Essentials

  • Take a communications device (phone, personal locator beacon, VHF radio).
  • Bring the essentials (water, food, warm and weather proof clothing, appropriate footwear, flashlight).
  • Considering the hazards, take appropriate equipment for the activity (wetsuit, personal floatation device).
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