Safety spotlight for recreational skippers

Recreational skippers throughout WA are being urged to complete an annual safety check of their vessel, trailer and safety equipment before getting out on the water this summer boating season.

Over the next three weekends Department of Transport (DoT) officers will be at busy boat ramps between Mandurah and Hillarys safety checking hundreds of vessels before they launch. 

DoT Acting Director Waterways Safety Laurie Adams 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 Adams said.

“In a similar campaign last year officers checked 1,372 vessels and 172 were turned away.   

“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 our website to find out how to take the challenge at any time.

Officers will be at Mandurah boat ramps this weekend (26,27 November 2022) before focusing on ramps from Hillarys Boat Harbour to Two Rocks (3,4 December 2022) and on December 10 and 11 concentrating on launch sites from Woodman Point to Point Peron.

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

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