Sunbury and Macedon Ranges residents are being urged to exercise caution before getting out on the boat this summer.
According to Maritime Safety Victoria (MSV) data, the rate of incidents occurring at sea is returning to pre-pandemic levels.
In 2020-21, 1248 boaters and fishers were involved in serious incidents across Victoria, with issues ranging from boat fires, capsizing and flooding.
MSV is urging all boat owners to check their vessels are stocked with all essential equipment. This includes all equipment necessary to maintain the boat or items that can be used in an emergency, such as flares, charged batteries and a fire extinguisher.
The state government body is also anticipating busier than average waters, as registrations of jet skis have increased from 21,000 to 26,000 in the past year.
Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne said it never hurts to double-check you’re ready every time you leave the dock.
“These steps make all the difference in ensuring Victorian boaters and fishers make it home safely after a day on the water, particularly as we head into the busy, summer months on the bay and across our rivers and lakes,” Ms Horne said.
“We know most Victorians will do the right thing, but Fisheries Officers will be out across the state to answer questions, check licences and check catch limits, while MSV will be ensuring boaters are safe on our waterways.”
