
After 41 years on Canadian waters, our C-Tow Captains have seen it all. But three types of calls dominate our dispatch center during peak boating season: dead batteries, fuel emergencies, and soft groundings. The good news? All three are easily preventable with some simple preparation and know-how.
Dead Batteries: The Silent Season-Killer
Nothing kills the mood faster than turning your key and hearing… nothing. Dead batteries are our most frequent call, and they always seem to happen at the worst possible moments – like when you’re anchored in a perfect spot or trying to get back before dark.
Our experienced Captains come prepared with portable jump starters and the expertise to get you running again quickly. But here’s how to avoid this common headache:
• Test your battery before each season – marine batteries typically last 3-4 years
• Keep terminals clean and connections tight
• Consider a battery monitor to track voltage levels
• Always carry a portable jump starter as backup
• Turn off all electronics when the engine isn’t running
Running on Empty: The Fuel Gauge Gamble
“I thought I had enough fuel to get back…” – words our Captains hear almost daily during July when everyone’s out exploring new waters and pushing their range limits. Our Captains carry emergency fuel supplies and can get you safely back to shore or to the nearest marina.
Fuel emergencies are easily preventable with smart planning:
• Follow the “Rule of Thirds” – use 1/3 of your fuel going out, 1/3 coming back, and keep 1/3 in reserve
• Account for wind, waves, and current – they all affect fuel consumption
• Know your boat’s fuel burn rate at different speeds
• Always top off before heading to unfamiliar waters
• Keep a jerry can of emergency fuel onboard for longer trips
Soft Groundings: When Shallow Water Finds You
Even experienced boaters occasionally find themselves in shallower water than expected. Soft groundings – running aground on sand, mud, or silt – are especially common during low tide periods and in unfamiliar waters.
The key is staying calm and not making the situation worse. Our Captains are experts at safe grounding recovery, using proper techniques to free your vessel without causing damage to your hull, prop, or lower unit.
If you run aground:
• Stop the engine immediately to avoid prop damage
• Check for hull damage or water intrusion
• Try shifting weight to the stern and backing off slowly
• Don’t gun the engine – you’ll just dig in deeper
• If you can’t free yourself easily, call C-Tow!
Prevention is always better:
• Study charts and know the water depths
• Watch for tide changes in tidal waters
• Use depth finders and GPS navigation
• Go slow in unfamiliar areas
• Pay attention to other boats’ routes
Peace of Mind on the Water
These three scenarios represent the majority of our assistance calls across Canada’s waters, but they’re all preventable with proper preparation and equipment. Whether you need emergency help or just want the peace of mind that comes with membership, C-Tow’s network of professional Captains is standing by 24/7.
With Canada’s largest on-water towing fleet and four decades of experience, we’ve built our reputation on being there when you need us most. Don’t let a preventable emergency cut your day short – but know that if it happens, help is just a call away.