Boat safety blitz to start this weekend

Boats, trailers and equipment will be the focus of an expanded pre-summer safety blitz by the Department of Transport (DoT) commencing Saturday at boat ramps in the Peel region. 

Over the next three weekends DoT Marine Officers will target boat ramps from Mandurah to Hillarys safety checking hundreds of vessels before they launch.

DoT Director Waterways Safety Chris Mather said to avoid being turned away at the boat ramp boat owners should inspect and maintain their vessel and trailer before leaving home and also make sure their safety gear is in good condition and accessible in an emergency.  

“DoT produces a free BEST Check guide which identifies things to do before each trip and lists items for an annual 45-point check. Boat owners can follow the guide and complete the check before they hit the ramp,” Mr Mather said.

“Officers will be taking the opportunity to encourage skippers to download the free Deckee boating app which now includes up-to-date WA boating information essential for a safe day on the water.

“At the ramp skippers and passengers will also be able to take the 30 Second Challenge which tests readiness for an emergency response on board a vessel.”

People can visit the website to find out how to take the challenge at any time.

It is the first time the Peel region has been included in the pre-summer safety blitz and officers will be at Mandurah boat ramps this weekend (27,28 November 2021) before focusing on ramps from Woodman Point to Point Peron (4,5 December 2021) and on December 11 and 12 concentrating on launch sites from Hillarys Boat Harbour to Two Rocks.

To get a copy of the Best Check guide or for more information about boating safety visit our marine page Deckee is available now for free download from the App Store and Google Play Store.

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