Blitz On Lax Boat Owners (s.a.)

[mrmoshe]

Blitz on lax boat owners

A SAFETY blitz on Yorke Peninsula has sparked concern over the "complacent" attitude of some boat owners.

During the week-long operation, more than 700 boats at six ramps were checked for compliance with marine safety regulations.

Department for Transport officers cautioned 101 boat owners and issued 24 expiation notices for various breaches.

The officers also stopped 45 boats from launching because they did not have the required safety equipment.

Several boats checked while on the water by mobile patrols were also escorted back to shore for similar breaches.

Department head of safety regulation Brian Hemming said the operation had exposed a "complacent" attitude to marine safety among some boat owners.

"To have that number of breaches is a concern," he said.

"In some cases, it appears boat owners are more concerned about equipment used for catching fish than that to ensure the safety of those on board."

The five-day operation concentrated on marine safety education and enforcement, reminding boat owners of their responsibilities.

"This included carrying appropriate safety equipment in their boats, which was a major focus of the operation, operating boats safely and ensuring boats carried on trailers are done so in a safe manner," Mr Hemming said.

"It's important to remember, the further distance you travel from shore, the more safety equipment you need.

"This includes flares and smoke signals, a compass, fresh water, a working marine radio and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon."

A number of expiation notices were also issued to jet ski operators for various offences including speeding, not wearing a personal flotation device, operating unlicensed and operating in a restricted area.

The operation also paid attention to boat trailers – particularly for compliance to recently introduced regulations relating to brakes.

Another operation is being planned for the same area, but officers are expected to show less leniency for any detected breaches.

The multi-agency operation included the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure, the Department for Primary Industries and Resources South Australia and local police.