Boaties are urged to check that their vessels and lifejackets are shipshape before heading offshore as South Australians gear up for a safe season on the water.
Observing speed limits, packing the right safety equipment, and checking the weather forecast and wave conditions are also vital for a safe and fun day out on the water with family and friends.
Lifejackets save lives and are the most important piece of safety equipment.
With safety standards set to change in the New Year, boaties and water lovers are encouraged to plan ahead and ensure their lifejackets are to standard and suitable for their activity.
From 1 January 2025, lifejackets that meet older Australian Standards AS 1512, AS 1499 and AS 2260 will no longer be acceptable in South Australia. When purchasing a new lifejacket, look for one branded with AS 4758.
The level of lifejacket you need, and where you must wear it, depends on your vessel (type and length), your age, where you are operating and the conditions.
In the past 12 months, Marine Safety Officers have inspected 5404 vessels at boat ramps and on the water, with 143 lifejacket expiations among 601 fines for non-compliance. During this time, 1014 safety cautions were issued, while 515 people were stopped from launching and 241 boaties were sent ashore.
Inflatable lifejackets should be serviced regularly – at least once a year – and foam lifejackets routinely checked for wear and tear.
Safety gear is only helpful if it is in good working order and within easy reach in an emergency. Can you grab your flares, make a radio call, raise an alarm for help and put on a lifejacket in 30 seconds?
Being water wise also means knowing your limits. A four-knot speed restriction applies within 50m of a person or non-powered vessel and within 30m of any other vessel.
Slow down, be aware of the impact of wake and wash on others and make the boating experience safe and enjoyable for everyone. A maximum penalty of $1250 applies if caught speeding on the water.
For more safety information and to check which lifejacket you need, visit Marine Safety SA (external site).
This article was prepared by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport and has been reproduced with permission.
