Paddlers need to prepare

Paddlers are being urged to heed safety advice before heading out on the water, following two separate rescues on Port Phillip Bay last week.

Paddleboarding is becoming an increasingly popular pastime and Safe Transport Victoria is urging paddlers to stay safe by wearing a lifejacket, using a leg rope, carrying two waterproof communication devices, and checking weather conditions – particularly for strong coastal winds.

Director Maritime Safety at Safe Transport Victoria, Cameron Toy, said the paddlers rescued were fortunate – but not every paddleboaters were so lucky.

“Thankfully the paddlers rescued this week were found safe and well, however the next paddler to be blown out into the bay may not be as lucky. We urge all boaters and paddlers to be prepared when going out on the water,” Mr Toy said.

“Stand-up paddleboards and other forms of human powered watercraft can easily be blown out into deep water by strong winds and paddlers need to take extra care.”

Paddleboards are more likely to be affected by strong winds than any other kind of watercraft and can easily be blown out into deeper water.

Paddlers should always be alert to wind speed and direction and be constantly monitoring how far from the shore they are.

Although paddleboarders are only legally required to wear a lifejacket when more than 400 metres from shore, conditions can change quickly, and it is strongly recommended to wear a lifejacket at all times.

Securing a leg rope is vital as it prevents the paddleboard floating away if a paddler falls off into the water.

Safe Transport Victoria has a series of safety tips and information for paddlers here: www.transportsafety.vic.gov.au/campaign-hub/paddlers-need-to-be-prepared.

Safe Transport Victoria’s summer boating safety campaign will run over summer to remind boaters and fishers of vital safety advice.