Safety on the water critical to safe summer

TORQUAY Marine Rescue Service (TMRS) is urging all jet ski users to have plenty of fun this summer, but do so in a responsible manner.

Jet skis and other personal watercrafts (PWC) get plenty of use over the summer months and TMRS Chairman Adam Stephens said it was important to remember the code of conduct, to not only protect others but ensure your own safety.

Mr Stephens said PWC users should not only be equipped with the appropriate safety gear, but also a personal location beacon (PLB).

The operators and their passengers should have a PLB on their life jacket … it’s a really essential bit of equipment,” Mr Stephens said. “It could be the difference between being found or not if something does go wrong.

“Let people know when you’re going out in the water and where you’re going.”

He said said it was extremely important to do all the necessary checks and services before taking your PWC out onto the water.

Mr Stephens said there had been an increase in snorkelers, prone paddlers and the like further out at sea and if PWC users are travelling at high speeds off the shoreline, they should consider going a little bit further to be on the safe side.

“If you’re travelling at speed, do it at least 1km offshore,” he advised.

Mr Stephens said the overriding message was to be mindful of others when enjoying all the great things our ocean and coastline has to offer.

“We’re anticipating a significant increase in visitors to the region, a lot of those won’t be familiar with the region,” he said.

“Hopefully we can have a safe and uneventful summer.

“We encourage people to operate their skis away from people and away from public areas … and keep a safe distance between yourself and other ski riders. We really want people to think about other water users.”

Mr Stephens said the door is always open at TMRS for anyone seeking information or guidance.