NSW boating safety blitz

Roads and Maritime Services will shine a spotlight on skippers and their key responsibilities in keeping themselves and others safe on the water during the second statewide boating safety campaign starting this Saturday (November 7).

Maritime Director Angus Mitchell said Operation Boatsafe: You’re the Skipper, You’re Responsible will run until sundown on Sunday November 15 the following week.

"There were 282 reported boating incidents on NSW waterways last year, with key contributing factors to incidents identified as poor judgement, alcohol and excessive speed," Mr Mitchell said.

"During the nine day operation, Roads and Maritime Boating Education Officers will be in key waterside locations to provide boating safety information and Boating Safety Officers (BSOs) will be out on the water randomly selecting vessels to check the operator’s compliance with safety requirements.

"Boat operators, or skippers, are responsible for the safety of their vessel and the people on board and Roads and Maritime aims to help reduce boating incidents by raising the awareness of boat skippers.

"Skippers need to be constantly aware of their responsibilities on the waterways, continually observing maritime regulations and safety requirements.

"Before boating, skippers must ensure it is safe to go out and the vessel has all the required safety equipment on board, including the appropriate navigational lights at night."

Mr Mitchell said during the campaign, BSOs will carry out safety checks with a continuation of the zero tolerance approach to non-compliance with lifejacket rules.

"On-the-spot fines will apply to those found to be in breach of maritime law," he said.

"Lifejackets must be worn in vessels smaller than 4.8 metres when boating offshore, on alpine waters, at night or when along, and at all time by people younger than 12.

"Lifejackets must be in good condition and must be accessible and the right size for each person on board. Boaters need to ensure lifejackets are worn in times of heightened risk, regardless of the size and type of vessel.

"Wear a lifejacket – don’t risk your life, especially in small boats."

For more information on skipper responsibilities and boating safety, visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime.