Boating enthusiasts across the Bellarine Peninsula are urged to exercise caution on the water after Life Saving Victoria statistics revealed they’re more likely to drown during October than any other month in Victoria.
Since the year 2000, one in six of all boating-related drowning incidents in Victoria occurred in October, coinciding with the weather warming in spring.
The warning coincides with National Safe Boating Week, which runs from October 1-7 and in 2022 focuses on the effectiveness of lifejackets with the simple message to “wear it and maintain it”.
Coastguard Queenscliff flotilla commander Michael Donohue said the first weekend in October is one of the busiest days on the calendar for boaters.
“People are locked up over winter and don’t do much boating or fishing over the winter months,” he said.
“The first week after the grand final, the boat ramps are flat out.
“Unfortunately that often leads to breakdowns and boating failures as boats are often not well maintained over the winter months.”
Mr Donohue said Coastguard Queenscliff had already attended two rescues this month and had advice for boaters who may be getting out onto the water for the first time in months.
“Number one is get your boat serviced before you get it back out after winter,” he said.
“Check your fuels and oil. Don’t have old fuel in the tank.
“Check that your safety equipment is working and flares and life jackets are in date. And just take it carefully.”
Maritime Safety Victoria recreational boating safety manager Gareth Johnson said a lifejacket can only save your life if you are wearing it.
“If you end up in the water, you are much more likely to survive if you are wearing a lifejacket and when accidents do happen, there is rarely time to put a lifejacket on,” he said.
“Lifejackets must be maintained to ensure reliable operation, this includes self-inspection and servicing by accredited agents.
“There are many types of lifejackets available today that meet the appropriate standards, so find the style that works for you and wear it.”
LSV general health promotion and communications manager Dr Bernadette Matthews added that of the boating incidents that occurred during the past decade, 79 per cent were either not wearing a lifejacket or their lifejacket was ill fitting or worn incorrectly.
