THE Department of Transport is advising river users to take extra care on the water ahead of the Avon Descent and other white-water events in coming weeks.
Acting waterways safety management director Mark Briant said regular river users were encouraged to check if an event or training days were scheduled for the waterway they plan to use.
Mr Briant said people should take extra precautions when on the water, particularly when operating close to blind bends and within narrow channels.
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READ NOW“High speed power race vessels are exempted from the usual speed limits during approved events and may approach other users without warning,” he said.
“Swimming where events are scheduled is discouraged.”
Mr Briant said the department worked with event organisers to raise awareness of the increased risk to paddle craft and other users during the events.
The Avon Descent will be held on August 4 and 5, with 60 power craft travelling from Northam to Perth over the two days.
Earlier events include time trials on July 22 from Bells Rapids to Middle Swan Bridge and a practice weekend on July 28 and 29 between Northam and Middle Swan Bridge on both days.
Visit www.transport.wa.gov.au for safety information.