Safety equipment changes targeted in pre-summer boating safety blitz

Recent changes in safety equipment requirements for recreational vessels in WA will be the focus of compliance campaigns at busy metropolitan and Peel boat ramps starting this weekend.

In advance of the summer boating season authorities will be checking skippers have the required equipment on board and the condition of each vessel and trailer before they head out on the water.

Department of Transport (DoT) Acting Director Waterways Safety Peter Beattie said there had been high levels of compliance with the changes since their introduction in September.

“Most skippers are on board with lifejacket carriage on all vessels and wearing when required but officers will be taking the time to educate skippers about the use of personal locator beacons in lieu of an EPIRB, and the benefits of GPS functionality,“ Mr Beattie said.

“We also want to reinforce the required carriage of Level 100 lifejackets in protected waters as many boaters don’t identify rivers and dams as protected waters. The five-year transition periods for GPS enabled EPIRBS and the more reliable VHF and HF radios is also something boat owners need to be aware of.

“The changes make it safer on the water and will help save lives. Skippers are to be applauded for their high level of compliance to date.”

Skippers are being urged to complete DoT’s BEST Check before heading to the ramp this summer which recommends checks of their boat, equipment, safety equipment and trailer before each trip and lists items for an annual 45-point check. Boat owners can follow the steps in the free guide available online.

Over three weekends officers and inspectors from DoT and Main Roads WA will be visiting ramps starting with selected locations from Woodman Point to Point Peron (25/ 26 November 2023), continuing with Mandurah to Dawesville (9/10 December 2023) and then from Hillarys to Two Rocks (16/17 December 2023). 

For more information about safety equipment requirements visit our Safety equipment page.

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