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Sail-World.com : Warning: Extra care needed when boating alone

Warning: Extra care needed when boating alone

A spate of solo boat operators falling overboard has prompted NSW Maritime to call on skippers to take extra care when boating alone.

NSW Maritime Recreational Boating General Manager Brett Moore said the authority had recorded four separate incidents over recent months.

'Fortunately, a tragedy was avoided in each of these recent incidents,' Mr Moore said.

'Boating alone can be a wonderful experience. However, if things go wrong help can be a long way away.

'NSW Maritime is asking all boaters to take extra precautions and be responsible when boating single-handedly.'

Mr Moore said one of the most recent incidents occurred last month at Brisbane Water when waves from a passing vessel caused a 5m runabout to rock, and the solo person onboard to slip on the wet deck, fall, break a hip and slide overboard.

The boat then continued unattended under full power to run in circles presenting a potential danger to others, and to the injured person in the water.

Two NSW Maritime Boating Officers were later able to stop the engine of the driverless boat by throwing lines into its path which entangled the propeller.

'The incident may have been worse if it had not been witnessed by a nearby fisherman, who swam out from shore and rescued the injured man,' Mr Moore said.

'It is a concern to NSW Maritime that at least four similar incidents have occurred over recent months involving people falling overboard when boating alone.'

Mr Moore said boating alone was considered a time of heightened risk and skippers should take the following precautions:

• Wear a lifejacket;
• Use a lanyard connected to the engine cut-off switch;
• Tell someone where you are going and estimated time of return;
• Check the weather; and
• Ensure the boat is suitable for the conditions.

www.maritime.nsw.gov.au




by Neil Patchett

  

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9:44 PM Wed 30 May 2007 GMT



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