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Frequently Asked Questions
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- Q. What is Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons (CPS)?
- A. Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons (CPS) is a
nationwide organization of boating enthusiasts. Their aim is to increase boating safety
and enjoyment by providing instruction in all phases of seamanship and navigation, both
power and sail.
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- It is a charitable, membership-type organization,
incorporated under the Companies Act of Canada. Except for a small, paid staff - all
teaching and administrative work is done by volunteers. CPS is non-governmental,
non-regulatory and non-military. It is not restricted to boat owners, nor owners of large
yachts. Purely and simply, it is a dedicated group interested in increasing safety and
pleasure on the waterways, through education.
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- Q. Does "Squadrons" have something to do with
airplanes?
- A. No, the word "Squadron" dates back to
the 1500's. It is a term used by the British Navy for a small number of warships that
could comfortably be directed by a single flag officer.
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- Q. How did CPS begin?
- A. United States Power Squadrons (USPS) spread into
Canada with the formation of the Windsor Power Squadron in 1938. The concept continued to
grow, with the Canadian Squadrons later forming their own organization - Canadian Power
Squadrons. The name was later changed to Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons to reflect
the broadening interests of all boaters.
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- Q. What is the mission statement of CPS?
- A. To increase awareness and knowledge of safe
boating by educating and training members and the general public, by fostering fellowship
among members, and by establishing partnerships and alliances with organizations and
agencies interested in boating.
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- Q. What are the educational objectives of CPS?
- A. CPS provides a diverse and challenging program. It
gives Members the promise of safety and greater enjoyment in their boating activities. It
also offers the satisfaction of personal accomplishment, and the opportunity to share
knowledge and skills. These opportunities are available to the general boating public as
well.
- There are currently three major divisions in the CPS Program
- Advanced Courses for Members, Elective Courses for Members and, at a non-member rate, to
the general boating public, and Public Seminars. Certificate designations are awarded to
Members as the various steps in the educational program are completed.
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- Q. What are the social activities?
- A. Social activities are varied. On-the-water
activities include cruises, rendezvous and navigation contests. Activities ashore include
meetings with guest speakers and refreshments, dinner-dances, picnics and Boat Show trips,
etc.
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- Q. How does one enroll in the CPS Boating Course?
- A. All Squadrons
offer the Boating Course at least once a year, and many offer it
more frequently. Times, dates and locations of these courses are publicized locally in
newspapers and other media. Information on classes can also be obtained by calling
1-888-CPS-BOAT (277-2628)
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- Q. What is the significance of the uniform?
- A. The CPS uniform is the traditional English yachting uniform adopted by the New
York Yacht Club in 1844 and by American yacht clubs thereafter. The CPS uniform has
distinctive insignia designating educational achievement, rank and service to the
organization. However, it is not necessary to have a uniform to participate in the events
sponsored by CPS and local Squadrons, or to be a volunteer in the organization.
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- Q. Is CPS affiliated with Canadian Coast Guard or other
governmental agencies?
- A. No, but CPS does cooperate closely with federal, provincial and municipal
government agencies that promote boating safety. In doing so, CPS is not involved with law
enforcement.
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- Q. What relationship exists between CPS and United States
Power Squadrons?
- A. The close relationship between the two organizations has resulted in many
people holding membership in both. A USPS applicant, having completed the USPS Boat Smart
Course, may apply for CPS Associate membership, or having completed the USPS Boating
Course, may apply for Regular membership. A CPS Associate or Regular Member may apply to
USPS for membership. Services rendered to one of the organizations will be recognized as
service to the other, for the purposes of earning a merit mark. Between both organizations
there is respect and warm friendship.
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- Q. Is CPS supported by the government?
- A. No, CPS is a membership-based, charitable organization supported by membership
dues and the educational programs.
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- Q. Does the organization lobby?
- A. No.
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- Q. How does one become a Member of CPS?
- A. "CPS Associate" membership is open to those who successfully
complete the CCG accredited examination that accompanies The Boat Pro Manual/Course, or
successfully complete the CCG accredited examination that is offered after completion of
specific sections of the Boating Course. "Regular" membership is available to
those who complete the examination that is offered at the completion of the full Boating
Course. Membership is for those who share a common love of boating, and are interested in
advancing the educational objectives of the organization. There are many benefits to membership in CPS.
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- Q. I have taken some CYA courses. Can I become a
Member of CPS, or take some of their courses?
- A. A
Member of CYA who has attained the Intermediate Cruising Standard
and the Coastal Navigation Standard, may enroll in the Advanced
Piloting or Celestial Navigation course of CPS. Upon
successful completion of the examination at the end of those
courses the person may become a member of CPS. The CPS Elective
Courses are open to the public.
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- Q. I have completed several courses at IMQ. Can I
become a Member of CPS, or take other courses with CPS?
- A. If
you have successfully completed an IMQ course at one level and
then successfully complete a CPS course at the next level you can
apply for membership in CPS. The CPS Elective Courses are open to
the public.
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