Roads and Martime Services is reminding people to take care on NSW Waterways
by Rena L Richmond 20 Oct 2018 13:34 PDT
Men in small boats most at-risk on NSW waterways © NSW Transport Roads and Maritime Services
Following an incident on Georges River this morning, Roads and Maritime Services is reminding boaters to take safety precautions when on the water.
Roads and Maritime Executive Director Maritime Angus Mitchell said that any incident that occurs on our waterways that causes harm, injury or is fatal is tragic - however in almost all cases, it is avoidable.
"We want people to be able to enjoy being on the water, but that comes with responsibility. It's important to always keep a proper lookout and remember that as the skipper you are responsible for yourself, all those on board, and also your impact on others using the waterway.
"Poor judgement is the third most common cause for fatal incidents and the main cause for both serious injury and overall incidents.
"What you do on the water affects other people around you so it's particularly important that you always precede at a 'safe speed', observe safety signs and be aware of passive craft, including kayaks, paddle boards and surf and jet skis," he said.
With the arrival of peak boating season, Roads and Maritime will continue to focus on the promotion of safe and responsible boating habits for the almost two million people who go boating in NSW each year.
"Those that fail to observe safe and respectful behaviour towards others will be in our sights," Mr Mitchell said.
For more information on boating safety view rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime