THE DEPARTMENT of Transport will be targeting boats, trailers and safety equipment in a pre-summer blitz from this weekend.
The first of two campaigns involving officers and inspectors from DoT and Main Roads will focus on boat ramps from Hillarys to Two Rocks next weekend – Nov 3 and 4.
The second is on the weekend of November 24 and 25, 2018 and will concentrate on launch sites from Woodman Point to Port Kennedy.
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READ NOWDepartment of Transport (DoT) Director Waterways Safety Chris Mather said boat ramps north and south of the river will be targeted over the next month.
“DoT produces a free BEST Check guide which identifies items under the headings boat, equipment, safety equipment and trailer to be maintained before each trip and lists items for an annual 45-point check. Boat owners can follow the guide and complete the check before they hit the ramp,” he said.
“Officers will also be taking the opportunity to reinforce the importance of having the correct safety equipment in good working order and will be advocating skippers and passengers take the 30 Second Challenge which tests readiness for an emergency response on board a vessel.”
The initiative tests if people can gather flares, EPIRB, make a radio call and don a lifejacket in 30 seconds.
People can visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/30secondchallenge to find out how to take the challenge.
“Tragically 20 of the 29 deaths (69 per cent) on WA waters over the last four years may have been prevented if the person had been wearing a lifejacket when they entered the water,” he said.