Boating enthusiasts are being urged by Transport for NSW Maritime to check their vessels and safety equipment before heading out on the State’s open waters during the warmer months.
Joining the call to put safety first, outgoing Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance said around two-thirds of all calls to Marine Rescue NSW were related to problems with engines, batteries and fuel.
Mr Constance said an increase in boating licences over the past year meant Transport for NSW (TfNSW) was expecting this to be the State’s biggest boating season ever.
“Lifejackets are the most important safety equipment on any recreational vessel,” Mr Constance said.
“In NSW you must service inflatable lifejackets once a year or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions,” he said.
“Remember to check them every time before you get on the water.”
Mr Constance said that whether people were fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding or water skiing, they needed to follow the rules to ensure a day out on the water did not end in tragedy.
The Minister reminded boaties that in areas subject to stay-at-home orders, including Greater Sydney and some regional areas, rules related to outdoor gatherings still applied.
TfNSW’s five-page Boating Safety Checklist can be accessed at this PS News link.
