Safety equipment should be carefully inspected, particularly pre-wear checks of lifejackets to make sure they are in good working condition and inflation mechanisms are working.
Items such as flares, distress beacons and fire extinguishers should be replaced if they have passed their expiry date.
Boaters should have up-to-date charts and local boating maps on board for every new waterway they explore, and ensure boating navigation lights are working regardless of whether a boat trip is only planned for during the day.
Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant said NSW’s extensive coastline and beautiful waterways are a boaters’ paradise, but it is important to remember where there is water, there is danger.
"If you are planning to take to the seas, I cannot stress how important it is to log your trip and the time you are expected to return with Marine Rescue NSW, and ensure you have a lifejacket for everyone on board," Mr Grant said.
