The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has partnered with the Australian New Zealand Safe Education Boating Group (ANZSBEG) for National Safe Boating Week, which took place from the 2nd to the 8th of October. It represented an opportunity for governments, industry leaders, and casual and professional seafarers alike to highlight the importance of safe boating across Australia and New Zealand.
AMSA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Sachi Wimmer said “Boating is core to our way of life. Not only is it a great way to spend your free time and enjoy the outdoors, but we also have a lot of people on boats out on the water earning a living,”
“Anyone who engages in boating activities should know the importance of preparation, water safety and responsibility.”
National Safe Boating Week is an initiative of the Australia and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG). The 2021 week highlighted three key aspects of safe boating – maintenance, safety equipment and wearing lifejackets.
Boats need regular maintenance, servicing, and safety checks to keep them ship-shape. Australian boaters must consider if their boat is maintained well enough for them to take their loved ones out on a safe trip.
It is also important boaters think about how things could go wrong and be prepared by having the right safety equipment on board, which is well maintained and accessible in an emergency.
“This week, I would like to particularly highlight the benefits of wearing lifejackets,” Ms Wimmer said.
“Survival experts tell us that if you go overboard with a lifejacket on, your chances of survival are significantly better. With so many styles on the market to fit different body shapes, why wouldn’t you protect your life?” Ms Wimmer concluded.