So, you’ve decided to take the boat out, but have you thought about getting back safely?
You have organised your lunch and decided where you’re going to, so you jump aboard and head off.
Many people make the mistake of forgetting about doing the basic safety checks.
First, have you got enough fuel?
Next, when was you motor last checked?
Even if you aren’t mechanic take some time to check your cooling system.
After fuel, overheating is probably the biggest causes of engine failure.
Finally, and most importantly, have you got the safety gear you need? It might just save your life.
Wear your lifejacket – it will save your life but only if you’re wearing it. You should also tell somebody where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Travel at a safe speed for the conditions, a speed you can effectively take action to avoid a collision with another boat, swimmers, wildlife, logs and shallow water.
Make sure you keep a look out. If it is difficult to see, then slow down.
Best laid plans, but what will you do if things go wrong? Don’t panic – make sure everyone is wearing a life jacket, deploy your anchor, and undertake some basic trouble shooting.
Did you open the breather on you fuel tank? Are the battery leads connected, and can you tighten them?
If you cannot get safely to shore, then it’s an emergency. Call the police on 000 or call Marine Radio Victoria on VHF channel 16.
The police will ask you questions, such as where you are located.
Mobile phones have a GPS in them, so if you go to your maps app there will be a blue dot for your current location. If you put a dropped pin on your current location the phone will display a lat/long.
If you ring 000 the phone will send your location.
This will help the emergency services to locate you quickly.
If it goes really bad and your boat is sinking or is on fire and you end up in the water don’t panic, a cool head might save your life.
Time is of the essence, your body will cool quickly so you need to be found quickly. Grab your flares, phone, and anything that floats, preferably a lifejacket.
If you have an EPIRB or PLB then activate that.
If you have a radio call MAYDAY x3 then your location and finally your problem.
Phone 000 ask for the police give your location tell them you are are in the water.
If the boat is partly afloat then stay with it, it’s much easier to find a boat than a person.
Keep everyone together and check on each other. Don’t try to swim to shore.
Be safe and enjoy the beautiful Gippsland Lakes and be assured the Paynesville Coastguard are happy to come and help you.
