BEST Check Guide

The school holidays are nearly upon us and there will be a lot of boating activity in our area.   If you haven’t already done so, now is the BEST TIME to undertake the following BEST check guide to guarantee the BEST day on the water:

Check your Boat

• Batteries

• Fuel and oil (plus 50% in reserve)

• Steering

• Keys and Bungs

• Suitable for the area of operation

Check your Equipment

• Test run your motor

• Use your trailing bracket

• Load your equipment for the voyage

Check your Safety equipment

• Safety equipment for the area of operation

• Check boating weather forecast

• Log on with Marine Rescue Jurien Bay

Check your Trailer

• Check your lights work

• Wheel pressure and bearings

• Tow hitch and safety chains

• Tie downs

(Credit: Department of Transport - for further information go to www.transport.wa.gov.au/boating guides)

In addition to the above, please remember to:

• Check the marine weather report and ensure you and your boat are suited to the prevailing conditions.  Are warnings current for your boating area?   Are there weather conditions affecting safe navigation and comfort?  What are the wind trends?  What are the wave conditions?   When is the next high and low tide?

• Be aware that wind gusts can be 40% stronger and maximum waves may be twice the height of what is forecast;

• Ensure you have the required safety equipment (life jackets, flares, EPIRB) for the area you intend to go;

• Ensure you have sufficient fuel.   Aim to carry 50 percent more fuel than you expect to use;

• Log on and off Marine Rescue Jurien Bay!!   Play it safe and use our services, or at least tell a relative or friend of your boating plans.