Whether you own a boat, kayak, canoe, jet ski or personal water craft, safety on the water is key to having a trouble-free (and fun!) expedition each and every time you set out.
No matter your level of experience, it is always best that your knowledge is current on all aspects of safety on the water.
Speeding, carelessness and inattention can lead to tragedy at sea. Drowning is the leading cause of fatality while using boats for recreational purposes.
Terrace Boating promotes the safe use of watercraft at all times. We want you to enjoy your time on local lakes, rivers and ocean waters with your precious family and friends.
Here’s our safety tips to follow:
Before the Voyage Begins
- Always tell a friend, family member or neighbour where you are going. Make sure they know your destination, and when you plan to return.
- Check the boat/jet ski or vessel is in good working order and make sure to refuel. Check the engine and all lights. The fuel system should also be inspected with substantial gas odour as a major sign of leakage.
- Always be aware of local laws, rules and regulations.
- Be conscious of the weather. Take a radio out with you and call it a day if winds start to escalate. It’s best to make the decision sooner rather than later as waters can get choppy quickly!
- Don’t overload the boat! Follow loading limits and only invite the amount of friends and family, and pack the amount of gear the vessel has capacity to hold. Overloading will increase your chances of capsize!
While on the Water
- Everyone wears a life jacket! According to the NSW Government Boating incident statistics close to ninety percent of drowning victims over that time period were not wearing a lifejacket. Numerous studies around the world have concluded this is the single most important safety feature for drowning prevention.
- Make sure you and your passengers are competent swimmers- with children wearing life jackets at all times.
- Never allow passengers to ride outside of protective railings or nominated seating, any sudden turn could send them overboard.
- As you depart the boat ramp, maintain slow speed for a safe and legal distance from the launch.
- Know and follow boat traffic rules.
- The engine should be shut off while passengers load and unload for tubing, wakeboarding, water-skiing, and swimming.
- Boating under the influence is dangerous. The effects of drugs and alcohol can be enhanced by the glare of the sun, wind and other environmental factors.
What you should have on board:
- All relevant registration and certification documents.
- A fire extinguisher.
- Fully stocked first aid kit.
- Survival and emergency evacuation plan- make sure all passengers are aware of this.
Boats are fun and many adventures await on the water, following these boating safety guidelines are paramount to a safe return each time.
If you have any questions regarding boats, jet skis, watercraft and safety on the water, contact your local experts at Terrace Boating today on (02) 4983 5600 – we’d be happy to help.