Wharf jump marks message

Some wharf jumpers tried to put thier life jackets on in the water. Photo: Supplied.

The annual Safe Boating Week wharf jump added a twist this year to emphasise the difference between wearing and carrying life jackets.

The first into the water this year were carrying instead of wearing their life jackets to make a point.

'Always wear lifejackets” is the Safer Boating Forum's message because at least two-thirds of recreational boating deaths can be prevented if people wear lifejackets.

'They have to hold onto their lifejackets when they hit the water and then try to put them on. This is surprisingly difficult to do,” says Forum Chair, Maritime NZ Deputy Director Lindsay Sturt.

'Most councils' bylaws require lifejackets to be worn. It is just common sense. Most accidents occur suddenly with no warning. When that happens it is too late to try to find and put on a lifejacket.”

The Safer Boating Forum traditionally starts Safer Boating Week from October 14-21 with a wharf jump in Wellington, and this year also in Auckland.

Prep, Check, Know

Safer Boating Week is the week before Labour Day weekend, the traditional start of recreational boating in much of the country. The aim is to encourage boaties to take simple steps before getting back on the water: Prep your boat, Check your Gear, Know the rules.

•Prep - service the engine, check and change the fuel, check the battery and just generally give the boat a good once over.

•Check - make sure your lifejackets are still fit for purpose and you have enough. Service any inflatable lifejackets and ensure you have two reliable forms of communication equipment.

•Know - ensure you know the 'rules of the road” on the water, and check your local bylaws to make sure you understand what the requirements are in your area.

'If you are on the water when you discover a problem with your boat or equipment, or that you do not know an important safety rule, then it is too late and people are in danger,” says Lindsay.

A week of boating events, and news media and social media activity is planned by councils and boating organisations all around the country. Including:

•For the first time the TV3 fishing show, Big Angry Fish, come on board as Safer Boating Week partners and feature on many new resources.

• Three smartphone apps - updating the nation-wide Marine Mate, launching Marlborough Cruise Guide, and promoting the successful MetService Marine.

•Local events include a colouring competition with the winning child becoming harbourmaster for the day, lifejacket checks, a boat race, fishing competitions, courses and training, boat ramp visits, and on the water checks. Plus, much more

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