South Australia Police will be conducting high‑visibility river and coastal patrols across South Australia this long weekend.
With boating, swimming and coastal camping among the most popular holiday activities, police are reminding the public that safety on the water and on the sand is a shared responsibility.
"Water Operations police and Marine Safety Officers will be monitoring coastal areas, boat ramps and waterways to ensure vessels are compliant, operators are licensed, and safety equipment requirements are met. Alcohol and drug impairment on the water will also be a focus.
"With many South Australians also heading to the River Murray over the long weekend, police are urging river users to respect the river and remain alert to hidden hazards such as strong currents, submerged snags and sudden depth changes.
"A properly fitted, compliant life jacket remains the most important piece of safety equipment on the water, and alcohol continues to be a major factor in drownings," Water Operations Unit, Sergeant Darian Leske said.
As the warmer weather continues, police are also reminding jet ski riders to be aware of speed restrictions and exclusion zones in place to keep everyone safe on the water.
At Henley Beach, an exclusion zone applies for all powered vessels between Grange Road and the River Torrens, extending 200 metres out from shore until 31 March.
Across all other metropolitan beaches between the Outer Harbour southern breakwater and the southern end of Sellicks Beach, jet skis must travel at 4 knots within 200 metres of the shore.
Riders must also travel at 4 knots when they are within:
- 50 metres of people or small unpowered craft such as kayaks and canoes
- 30 metres of any other vessel, whether stationary or underway
"Outside of these restricted areas, jet skis may travel at a safe speed and perform tight turns or manoeuvres, while keeping a proper lookout at all times. Jet skis can only be operated by people over 16 years old who hold a boat operator's licence.
"It is an offence to operate a jet ski with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 or more, or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs," Sergeant Leske said.
Police are also reminding beachgoers that road rules apply on beaches, including those accessed by four‑wheel drives, quad bikes and trail bikes. All beaches have designated speed limits, with a default limit of 40km/h, and 25km/h within 50 metres of people, unless signed otherwise.
Incidents involving unregistered and unlicensed motorbikes and quad bikes on beaches and coastal camping grounds have previously resulted in significant fines and enforcement action.
"Unsafe or illegal riding places swimmers, families and other beach users at serious risk.
"While enforcement action may result in fines, licence loss or vehicle impoundment, police remind the public that these consequences are minimal compared to the lifelong impact of serious injury," Sergeant Leske said.
Police urge all water users to plan ahead, follow the rules, and remain aware of others enjoying South Australia's coastline and Riverland.
