A new first-in-Australia service for boaters has been introduced in WA, improving the safety of skippers entering waters containing safety hazards.
The result of a partnership between the Department of Transport (DoT) and Deckee, the Deckee boating app will alert skippers immediately with improved WA data and functionality.
Unveiled by the Director of Waterways Safety Management for DoT, Chris Mather the new feature will see skippers receive Temporary Notices to Mariners via the app when they enter affected waters.
Mr Mather said the alerts were sent in real-time and based on the GPS location of the skipper’s device.
“The app is not a replacement for safety equipment but, if put to good use, the information it contains, could be a lifesaver,” he said.
The Director said alerts included updates such as information considered important to safe navigation, warnings about marine hazards and notices about approved aquatic events.
“This further complements the huge amount of WA-specific safety information already available on the app,” he said.
“The upgraded functionality of the app delivers safety information to the fingertips of skippers throughout WA with the clear objective to save lives on the water.
“In 2021 there were 10 recreational boating fatalities in WA, compared with seven in 2020 and 10 in 2019.
“This is an Australian first and another reason why anyone who is regularly out on the water in WA, whether for work or pleasure, should download the free Deckee boating app.”
Deckee is available for free download from the App Store and Google Play Store.
Further information can be accessed at this PS News link.
