Boat Safety

Police are urging boaties to ensure all safety checks are carried out before heading off shore or onto the Lake this summer. This includes letting someone else know of your intentions, destination and expected return time; as well as ensuring you have two reliable forms of communication on you.

Inspector Ian Harris of Police Communication Centres says that amongst the twenty four water related incidents since 6 pm Christmas Eve Police have received six calls from boaties or concerned observers of boats in trouble and requiring a tow from either other boaties, Coastguard or Police Maritime Units. Some simple precautions taken prior to leaving shore may have prevented these emergencies. Fortunately no lives have been lost.
He urges boaties to become members of their local Coastguard and to utilise the '2 minute form' and follow other safety tips available on www.boatsafe.org.nz.

"Traditionally we also have a number of jet-ski incidents occurring this time of year and I just want to reiterate the safety messages around responsible behaviour when enjoying this type of activity. Alcohol use around water activities is fraught with danger and in previous years we have seen tragic results from these activities that could have been avoided if more care was taken," Inspector Harris said.

You will be a 'legend' and a hero in our eyes if you prevent tragic results by convincing others around you to exercise responsible and safe behaviour both on the water and on the roads this holiday season.