BOATERS are being urged to wear lifejackets and carry safety equipment this summer – especially near Port Phillip Heads.
The area will be under the watchful eyes of the Water Police, who will be patrolling the area as part of Operation South End.
They aim to ensure boaters are safe and well equipped.
Leading Senior Constable Dave McHenry said that following a coronial inquest, ‘The Rip’ was a designated hazardous area.
“This designation means that under legislation people must wear life jackets in the area,” Leading Senior Constable McHenry said.
“They are among an array of safety items that every boat owner should be carrying on board, but in this particular area the life jacket is especially important.
“The water in the area can be very rough and should anyone fall out of the boat there could be dire consequences.”
The area covers the water between Shortland Bluff, Point Nepean and Point Lonsdale.
Leading Senior Constable McHenry said the operation wasn’t all about issuing infringement notices, rather educating the public about their responsibilities on the water.
“The weather is slowly heating up and it’s a great time to get out on the water,” he said.
“But if you can’t do it safely, don’t do it at all.
“If you’re heading out on the water for the first time in a while, make sure to do a thorough inventory of your safety equipment and ensure it’s all up to date and in working order.”
Operation South End will run throughout the summer.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 13 December 2016
