With the festive holiday season approaching and the weather improving, Tasmania Police would like to remind all boat owners of the importance of practicing safe activities whilst on the water this summer.

All boat owners should ensure their vessel and required safety equipment is serviceable and in good working condition.   Items such as life jackets, flares, EPIRBS etc. should all be checked prior to heading out on the water to ensure they function correctly.

“It’s very important to ensure you maintain all your safety equipment for your vessel. Make sure it is all fully serviced as per manufacturer’s instructions and that all persons on your boat know exactly where it is stored if it is needed,” Inspector Lee Renshaw, from Tasmania Police Marine Division said.

“Two stroke petrol will deteriorate over a 3 month period – when was the last time you used or replaced the petrol in the tanks of your boat?

“Make sure you check weather conditions prior to planning a day on the water, always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return, and remember that alcohol and boating don’t mix.  Like driving in your car on the road, a 0.05% blood alcohol limit applies to boat drivers on Tasmania’s waterways.”

The increase in popularity of lightweight paddle craft has made them attractive as Christmas presents.   With the launch the Boat Safe and Paddle Safe Partner campaign, it’s been identified that those craft are classed as high risk whilst on the water.

“If you are new to paddling activities and want to get out on the water, please make contact with an identified Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) Safe Paddle Partner. These retailers have undertaken training by MAST and can provide you all the key knowledge and equipment required to ensure you are safe whilst out on the water,” Inspector Renshaw said.

Tasmania Police want everyone to enjoy their summer and make the most of all the fantastic waterways Tasmania has to offer. By ensuring all your equipment is in a serviceable condition, safety equipment is carried and a few simple steps are taken to properly plan your trip everyone will return home safe and be ready for their next adventure.

ENDS