In emergency situations, which authority should vessels contact in the Welland Canal?

In emergency situations within the Welland Canal, vessels should contact the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority. This organization is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the seaway, which includes the Welland Canal. The St. Lawrence Seaway Authority manages navigation, coordinates traffic, and ensures safety within the waterways it oversees. Thus, in a crisis, they possess the necessary resources and authority to respond effectively and coordinate any required emergency services or navigational assistance.

While Parks Canada, the Local Coast Guard, and the Canadian Government have relevant roles in broader marine and environmental safety, they do not specifically oversee the navigation and operational safety of the Welland Canal like the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority does. Therefore, reaching out to the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority is vital for ensuring immediate and appropriate responses to emergencies.