Boating alone
Recreational boating generally includes mates or family, but there may be times when boaties want to head out alone to a favourite spot.
Maritime Safety Queensland recommends these lone boaties take some simple extra precautions to ensure they get home safely.
Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Patrick Quirk advises lone boaties should start by telling someone where they are going and when they will be back, and to log on and off with their local volunteer rescue organisation.
“It’s also just common sense to wear a lifejacket at all times – remember, if you end up in the water, you’re on your own and you’ll need it to keep you afloat until help arrives,” Mr Quirk said.
“Wearing a throttle lanyard attached to your wrist will stop the motor instantly if you lose control of the boat or go overboard."
“Without power the boat won’t leave you behind in the water, or worse, run over you.”
Maritime Safety Queensland suggests installing a reputable automatic engine shutdown device or 'kill switch' as they are commonly called.
Always make sure you have the right safety gear for where you are going, check the expiry dates and that everything is in good condition. Maritime Safety Queensland advises that EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) must be carried in certain Queensland waters and skippers should make sure they know these requirements.
Finally remember, whether boating alone or with others, you’re the skipper, you’re responsible.
Further information
