Boat safety in focus at Karratha with Old4New lifejacket upgrade opportunity

Skippers in the Pilbara are being told to check their vessel before each trip and ensure their safety gear is in good working order.

As part of a renewed focus on boat safety during the peak of the season in the North West the Department of Transport's (DoT) Marine Safety Education Trailer is touring the region and there's an opportunity to participate in the very successful Old4New lifejacket upgrade at Karratha's popular FeNaClNG event.

DoT Manager Safety Education Laurie Adams said the Old4New program, delivered in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society of Western Australia, was an upgrade opportunity where old, damaged, obsolete or foam filled lifejackets could be exchanged for a voucher for use at a local retail outlet when purchasing a new lifejacket.

"It is a hugely successful program and this year has seen more than 800 unsafe lifejackets taken off boats in WA," Mr Adams said.

Voucher limits and restrictions are in place to ensure the benefits of the program apply to as many vessels as possible so people who want to participate should check the guidelines at www.transport.wa.gov.au/lifejackets

Mr Adams said skippers could also get updates and tips on safe boating and access the latest DoT boating guides and other free publications from the Marine Safety Education Trailer as it tours the North West.

"Marine education and regional transport officers who permanently patrol local waters will be on hand to discuss issues and promote BEST checks before each voyage," Mr Adams said.

Old4New will be at FeNaClNG from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm on Saturday August 5, 2017.

To get the latest information on locations to visit the trailer while in the North West like MarineSafetyWA on Facebook or visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au