Operation Boat Safe: What to know before you go
Safety operation underway at key ramps to ensure offshore boaters are carrying safety gearThe sixth statewide boating safety campaign for 2015-16 is now underway with boaters reminded to brush up on their pre-voyage safety checks.
Roads and Maritime Services Maritime Director Angus Mitchell said Operation Boat Safe: What to know before you go would see Boating Safety Officers head out on the water with Boating Education Officers focusing on boat launching areas to check boater compliance with NSW boating safety rules over the weekend (concluding Sunday afternoon April 10).
Targeted areas for the boating safety operation will include Port Macquarie, Camden Haven, Port Stephens, Myall River and Myall Lakes, Sydney Harbour including Middle Harbour and Parramatta River, Botany Bay, Georges River, Port Hacking, Tuross Lake, and Narooma.
"Boaters are reminded to check they have sufficient fuel and water ahead of a boating trip and to make sure the crew knows how to handle the boat according to the conditions," Mr Mitchell said.
"Skippers should be are aware of weather forecasts and be familiar with the waterway and all emergency contact numbers.
"Before you head off on any voyage you must always at the very least tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. You can also register your trip with Marine Rescue NSW.
"If crossing a bar, access the RMS website to view live web camera footage for a number of coastal bars in NSW.
"Check the weather before you go out. Register for the maritime alert system which is based on official weather data at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/using-waterways/weather-tides/alerts.html.
"It should go without saying that all boat owners have the required safety equipment, including the correct number and size lifejackets for all on board.
"It is also crucial to ensure other key safety items such as anchors, flares, EPIRBs and fire extinguishers are all on board and in good working order.
"People should also focus on what can be done to reduce the amount of wash being created – as a courtesy to other boaters and from an environmental perspective.
This is one of the last of the boating safety campaigns this year and while people boating in NSW continue to show improvement in following the rules, we want to finish on a positive note," Mr Mitchell said.
For information on boating safety visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime.
For information on boating safety checklist www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/safety-rules/safety-equipment/safety-equipment-table.html.
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