Know the three when out at sea

What is this campaign about?

Summer is a great time to get out on Victorian waters. The increase in boat use means more people are out on the water including both new and experienced boaters.

There’s no single solution to staying safe on a boat.

‘Know the three when out at sea’ is a campaign encouraging boaters to follow all three safety messages, as adhering to one isn’t enough when trouble strikes.

What is the aim of the campaign?

This campaign is designed to take on three key directives that will help Victorians stay safe on the water. The campaign highlights the number ‘three’ specifically, as only following one or two messages isn’t enough to prevent or manage an incident.

What is involved in this campaign?

The campaign will run from December to March and will focus on three key points to remember.

Being safe on the water starts with always wearing a properly fitted lifejacket. Lifejackets are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment on recreational vessels.

When out on the water, it is important to ensure you and everyone else on the vessel are wearing the correct lifejacket which is maintained, serviced and cared for.

A lifejacket can only help you if it's in working order and serviced properly. This is why it's important to remember these three tips when it comes to lifejackets.

Always carry a two waterproof communication device when on your trip so you can call for help.

If you can’t get out of the water, you need to be rescued to survive. Your lifejacket buys you time to raise the alarm and wait for help. For rescuers to arrive, you need to let someone know you need them.

Carrying TWO types of waterproof communication devices is vital when out on the water.  In case one fails, you have a secondary device which will increase your chances of being rescued.

Communication devices can range from a mobile phone, a marine radio or a distress beacon.

On the water, weather conditions can change very quickly, so it's important to be prepared and keep a close eye on the forecast before and during your trip, so you can get home safely.

Boating in poor weather conditions commonly results in safety incidents such as capsizes, swamping and people falling overboard. These incidents are often preventable, especially if plan your trip safely. Remember, when it comes to the weather forecast, if in doubt, don't go out.