Plea for boaters to put safety first

Marine Rescue NSW has appealed to boaters to make safety their highest priority following a spike in the number of boating fatalities last year.

The Surf Life Saving NSW 2020 NSW Coastal Safety Report released today shows that boating fatalities comprised 31 per cent of the 49 coastal drownings during 2019/20.

MRNSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos said the reported rise was alarming.

“Summer is a fantastic time to be on the water. It is up to every skipper to ensure they are acting safely and responsibly,” he said.

“We are expecting record numbers of boaters on the State’s waterways this season. Our volunteers are on duty along the coastline, on the Alpine Lakes and the Murray River at Moama to respond to emergencies.

“I am personally appealing to every boater to ensure they have all the required safety equipment and take every possible step to protect themselves and their passengers.

“It only takes a second for things to go wrong on the water. Make sure that everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket before you leave shore, don’t wait till you’re in trouble.

“Log On with Marine Rescue NSW so we know you’re out there and keep watch for your safe return. It’s quick and simple via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue App. Tell us where you’re going, how many people are on board and when you plan to return.

“If you’re not back safely to Log Off, we will start to search for you. If you choose the live tracking option on the App, we will know your updated location every half hour. That can save us valuable time if we’re launching a search mission to find you.

“A VHF marine radio provides greater range and clearer reception, helping ensure you’ll be heard if you call for help. Always check the weather and sea conditions before your voyage and if in doubt, don’t go out.”

Commissioner Tannos said MRNSW volunteers had joined the response to numerous fatalities last year.

“Take a moment to think of the terrible impact your loss would have on your family and friends and the traumatic circumstances for the members of the emergency services, including our volunteers, who will be tasked to respond, often for days should the very worst happen,” he said.

See the report at www.surflifesaving.com.au