Safe boating for life – get home safely this summer

Friday, 24 December 2021

South Australian boaters should slow down and stay safe during the summer holidays.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport anticipates more South Australians will holiday at home this summer, including families and individuals taking their boats out for the first time.

Whether you are checking out a new spot, taking the family for a river cruise or jumping in for a day of skiing, please always remember that safe boating is for life.

Safe boating means being a responsible boat owner, this summer and always.

Before you head out on the water, check these safety tips off your list:

• Keep your boat safe and ready to go with regular checks and servicing
• Make sure everyone wears the correct lifejacket
• Always check the weather via BOM before and during boating
• Pack the right safety equipment and make sure it is in good condition
• Know the limits of your boat
• Let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back
• Stick to a safe speed when you’re out on the water.

Across the festive season, Marine Safety Officers will conduct extensive compliance operations across the metropolitan coast and popular holiday destinations including the Murray River, Yorke Peninsula, far west coast, lower west coast and the southeast.

As more people are on the water it is especially important for boaters to be aware of speed limits, river etiquette and boating safety.

Speed limits are in place where high-speed boats may be a hazard to other water users. Various harbours and marinas are subject to speed limits. Four-knots is commonly referred to as a fast-walking speed.

Slow down and make the boating experience safe and enjoyable for everyone.

There are penalties if you do not observe the controls or speed restrictions provided.

Safe boating for life – you’ve got this. For more information visit: Safe boating for life (marinesafety.sa.gov.au).