Buy your dad some safety

Transport Safety Victoria (TSV) spokesperson Paul Corkill said lifejackets are lifesavers and every father who goes boating should have one.

"There's always a risk when you go out boating. Our figures show that in 2013-14, there were a total of 1333 recreational boating incidents across the state, including 10 fatalities.

"Sadly, men are over represented in these drownings and too often it's because they were not wearing a well-fitting lifejacket.

"The good news is that the latest research by respected injury prevention academics shows that lifejackets have significantly reduced drownings among recreational boaters across Victoria.

"Safety on the water is the number one priority and we want every father out there to return home safely from their boating trip.

"Whether your dad owns a kayak, a 30-foot yacht or a tinny, a lifejacket is an indispensable piece of safety equipment out on the water.

"So instead of buying your dad socks and jocks, invest in something that may actually save his life – buy him a lifejacket.

"There are so many good inflatable lifejackets available – they come in a wide range of comfortable styles designed to be worn all day and most sell for between $50-$100.

"Even if your dad has a lifejacket, it may be worn out, bulky or uncomfortable. A new, sleek lifejacket can make it more convenient and safe for your father to spend all day on the water.

"We strongly advise all boaters to wear a life jacket at all times while boating. Lifejackets must also be made available to anyone on board their vessel," Mr Corkill said.

For more information about lifejackets, visit the TSV website www.transportsafety.vic.gov.au.