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Boat Safety Tips to Enjoy Summer in Western Australia
Summer is finally here in Western Australia – long days, amazing weather, and the urge to head off-road… or should we say, off-water? As we embrace the summer spirit, at Chivers we want to share some important boat safety tips to help you avoid issues and ensure a smooth, enjoyable boating experience.
Key Considerations Before Heading into Open Waters
As the skipper, you are responsible for the safety of your vessel and everyone onboard. Being prepared ensures you can enjoy your time on the water.
Check the Vessel’s Condition: Ensure the engine and lights are in good working order. Check that you have all the necessary equipment on board before you leave the shore or launch the boat.
Registration: If you have registered your vessel, ensure that the registration has not expired.
Hatches and Access: Ensure all hatches can be opened from both the inside and outside. Keep all hatches unlocked when underway to allow for quick access in an emergency.
Skipper Competence: Anyone operating your boat should have the necessary skills and experience to navigate the waterway safely
What Not to Do While Boating
Overloading the Boat: It’s easy to get excited, but don’t let enthusiasm cloud your judgment. Check the vessel’s weight limits and ensure you’re well under the maximum capacity.
Not Wearing the Kill Cord: Many boaters forget to use the kill cord, an essential safety feature. It ensures that the engine cuts out if the driver is ejected from the boat, preventing the boat from continuing to move and potentially causing an accident.
Avoid Spray Sunscreen: While convenient, spray sunscreen can leave a slippery residue on the deck, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Opt for cream-based sunscreen instead.
Messy Snacks: Some foods, like chocolate and cheese curls, are best left behind as they can create a mess. Choose snacks that are easy to eat without leaving residue.
Plastic Bags: To help preserve the environment, avoid using plastic grocery bags. Instead, use zippered lunch bags or cooler bags to carry food.
Glass Bottles: Glass is dangerous if it breaks. Choose aluminum cans or recyclable plastic containers for drinks.
Sitting on the Bow: Sitting on the bow or near the prop is illegal and dangerous. A sudden wave or collision can send someone overboard, and in some cases, result in serious injury or death.
Boat Safety Tips to Prevent Falling Overboard
Maintain Three Points of Contact: Anyone moving in a small boat should keep both hands and one foot (or both feet and one hand) in contact with the boat at all times to maintain stability.
Avoid Leaning Over the Edge: In a small boat, never lean a shoulder beyond the edge. This significantly increases the risk of falling into the water.
Don’t Ride on the Bow: Never ride on the bow of a powered vessel when it’s underway. It’s a high-risk activity and increases your chances of falling overboard.
Keep Your Centre of Gravity Low: When moving around a boat, especially one that is moving, keep your body low to maintain better balance and reduce the chance of falling.
What to Do if Someone Falls Overboard
Stay Calm: Panicking will only make the situation worse. Don’t jump in after the person; it could put both of you at risk.
Turn Off the Engine: If someone falls overboard, immediately turn off the engine or shift it to neutral. This prevents further accidents and reduces the risk of the boat becoming uncontrollable.
Balance the Boat: If possible, balance the weight of the boat before trying to pull the person back on board. Always approach carefully and ensure the person is safe before attempting to rescue them.
How to Keep Your Boat Safe
Boat security can be split into two categories: safety on the water and security when docked or parked on land.
When you are on open water remeber the following safety tips:
Know Navigation Rules: Understanding the waterway’s rules is crucial. Always plan ahead to avoid collisions, especially with larger vessels that cannot manoeuvre as easily.
Speed Limits: Adhere to speed restrictions and adjust your speed depending on visibility (e.g., during fog, sun glare, or rain) or at night. Remember, boats have no brakes.
Weather Awareness: If the weather starts to turn bad, head back to shore early to avoid being caught in dangerous conditions.
We all know that once the adventure is over, we’re thinking about having a nice rest at home. But don’t let your wonderful time be ruined by overlooking extra security tips:
Install an Alarm System: Research and invest in a quality electronic security system to monitor and track your boat. This can help prevent theft and protect your vessel from intruders.
Secure Your Boat on Land: Make sure your boat, especially when on a trailer, cannot easily be moved or stolen
Take Valuables with You: Avoid leaving visible, high-value items in your boat. Criminals may target unattended electronics and equipment.
Use Outboard Motor Locks and Immobilisers: Thieves often target outboard motors. Consider investing in both a heavy-duty motor lock and an electronic immobiliser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need an Epirb in WA?
Distress beacons, such as Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), are essential safety devices designed to alert rescuers when you’re in a life-threatening situation and require immediate assistance.
Every vessel must be equipped with a GPS-enabled EPIRB, or alternatively, at least one person on board should wear a GPS-enabled PLB. These beacons play a critical role in ensuring rapid location identification and prompt rescue during emergencies.
It’s important that your EPIRB or PLB is registered with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to ensure it can be swiftly activated in case of an emergency.
Is it mandatory to wear a life jacket in WA?
Vessels operating in unprotected waters (outside the waters contained by any breakwater or in any lake, river or estuary other than the waters of Cambridge Gulf or Lake Argyle) must carry an approved lifejacket for each person on board. You must carry a lifejacket (Level 100 or higher) for each person on board. Children aged 1 to 12 years on board must wear a lifejacket (Level 100 or higher) and be maintained in good condition and kept in an easily accessible place.
What safety equipment is mandatory on a boat?
The mandatory safety equipment you must always keep on your boat will depend on the size of the vessel. Common requirements include: lifejackets, Anchor and chain/line (Except for sailing boats up to 6m long), Bailer or bucket with lanyard, Bilge pump (electric or manual), Chart (map), Compass, Distress flares, Drinking water, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), Fire extinguisher, Marine radio, safety label, Sound signal, waterproof torch, V sheet. Make sure to check the specific regulations for your boat.
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Chivers Marine
An iconic name in Boating in Western Australia, Chivers Marine has been selling quality marine products since 1958.
The business that Laurie Chivers established over 60 years ago is still family owned and operated with Luke Chivers at the helm.
If you are looking for specialist advice and exceptional value Chivers Marine offers only the best brands supported by the best aftersales service in the industry
Chivers Marine
An iconic name in Boating in Western Australia, Chivers Marine has been selling quality marine products since 1958.
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