Summer boating safety blitz at the hazardous Rip

Victorian Water Police have announced they will be ramping up patrols of the Port Phillip Heads and the infamous Rip area — don't make it a Rest In Peace result — to improve boating safety in The Bay this summer.

Operation South End will target recreational boaters in this dangerous area to make sure they are using the correct safety equipment.

Leading Senior Constable Dave McHenry said that, following a coronial inquest, the area around the Heads known infamously as The Rip was designated a hazardous area.

This designation means that under legislation people must wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) in the area.

"The PFDs are among an array of safety items that every boat owner should be carrying on board, but in this particular area the life jacket is especially important," LSC McHenry said

"The water in the area can be very rough and should anyone fall out of the boat there could be dire consequences."

According to the legislation, the area covers the water between Shortland Bluff, Point Nepean and Point Lonsdale.

LSC McHenry said the operation wasn’t all about issuing infringement notices, rather educating the public about their responsibilities on the water.

"The weather is slowly heating up and it’s a great time to get out on the water," LSC McHenry said. "But if you can’t do it safely, don’t do it at all.

"If you’re heading out on the water for the first time in a while, make sure to do a thorough inventory of your safety equipment. Ensure it’s all up to date and in working order.”

Operation South End will run throughout the summer. Today's inflatable yoke-style lifejackets are comfortable and unobtrusive to wear so there's no excuse for flouting the rules. More on Victorian boating safety in this downloadable handbook link here.