Trip preparation
Every accident or incident is unique but all occur due to a series of events, circumstances or failures. Following our preparation advice will help ensure you come home safely from your trip.
How to prepare for a trip
- Ensure your vessel is well maintained – including sufficient fuel and charged batteries
- Check you are carrying the required safety equipment
- Know the state and local waterway rules
Top tips
Our Prepare to Survive campaign explains how boaters and paddlers can complete five key steps:
- Know the weather – check before and during trips
- Wear a lifejacket – and keep it in good nick
- Lock in a buddy plan – let someone know your trip details
- Carry a distress beacon – and use it when in distress
- Practise getting back on – try reboarding your vessel from the water, know your limits
In this video, Andrew and Nick from Australian fishing show 'Hook, Line & Sinker' explain how good preparation gives the master of a vessel the best opportunity to make good decisions on the water.
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