St Kilda Boat Sales -
2 February 2010
Surf & Water Safety, Above All
Responding to a recent spate of drownings and 35% increase in rescues and incidents on the water, SLSA has released some tips for staying water safe over summer.
The Surf Life Saving Association has reported an increase of 35% in its rescue services this season, many of those boaties and fishos who have found themselves afloat, some close to shore but caught by heavy rips.
In a media statement the organisation said: “Understanding the ocean is very important - the more you know about how waves, wind and tides affect conditions in the water, the better able you are to keep yourself safe, or even rescue others, from danger. Recognising danger signs and awareness of surf conditions is an essential part of lifesaving”.
Focusing mostly on swimmers, surfers, paddlers and beach goers, the SLSA experts also warn recreational boaters to avoid the same set of dangers, which include:
* Never swim at unpatrolled beaches
* Never ever swim at night
* Never swim under the influence of alcohol
* Never run and dive into the water
There are 32 drownings every year relating to boat and watercraft incidents. Royal Life Saving reports that drowning deaths have occurred when people are not wearing PFDs, when they drink alcohol and fall in, when they are unprepared to cope with weather conditions, when watercraft are not seaworthy or when watercraft collide. In fact, alcohol is a contributing factor in 20% of all adult drowning deaths and often involved in watercraft related deaths.
They recommend:
* Between outings, have your boat inspected regularly for seaworthiness
* licence for boating valid
* equipment checked to comply with government regulations
* capsize and person overboard drills learned and practiced
* PFDs checked for wear and tear
* speed limits for area checked
More at www.slsa.asn.au
Reprinted from: MARINE BUSINESS NEWS by Jeni Bone