NSW Maritime

👍 Thumbs up from us for the nice catch
👍👍 Double thumbs up for the sun safety
👍👍👍 Triple thumbs up for the lifejacket

Rusty on your knowledge of fire extinguishers?

Protect your fire extinguishers from salt water and check theres no rust, corrosion or damage to any part 🧂

Regularly check that the charge indicator is in the green zone 🟩

If it's in the red zone, the extinguisher needs replacing 🟥

Fire extinguishers also must be serviced before their expiry date 📆

Do you know what this symbol on the Sydney Harbour Bridge is for?

☀️ Looking like calm conditions out at Newcastle

But a glance out the window doesn't always tell you the whole story...

🗺️ Plan: Check the forecast, tides, currents, sunrise & sunset

🦺 Prepare: Know your limits, pack the right safety gear & always wear a lifejacket

👀 Predict: Keep checking conditions while you're out there

👉 Winds, waves and tides can change quickly so plan ahead.

Kids + boats = lifejackets on 🦺

Under 12s are required to wear lifejackets on all vessels up to 4.8m long 🛥️

What do you check before you head out?

Before you head out, be prepared:

✔️ Check the weather forecast
🌬️ Look at wind, waves & tides
⚠️ Watch for warnings
🌅 Know your sunrise & sunset times
🧰 Make sure your safety gear is ready
📱 Log on/off with Marine Rescue (app, VHF 16 or phone)
🦺 Always wear your lifejacket

Don't be a pelican at the boat ramp 😠

Boat ramp etiquette is important so remember the 3 C's – care, courtesy, and common sense!

🌊 Prepping like a pro sets the stage for a seamless launch, do all your checks at home before you get to the boat ramp and when it comes to your time to shine get in and out efficiently 🚤

Going out on the water isn't always ☀️ & 🌈

Keeping a proper lookout means taking extra care during poor weather conditions ☔️

🥶 Falling into cold water can be deadly 🥶

Operation Icebreaker is out on inland and alpine waterways this long weekend chatting about boating in cold weather and the increased risks of ending up in the water ⚠️

❄️ Cold shock is an uncontrollable reaction in your body when it enters cold water suddenly
❄️ Your breathing and heart rate speed up sharply
❄️ You can inhale water while trying to catch your breath

Cold shock goes away quickly, but can be dangerous in the first few moments.

🦺 Your lifejacket should always be the last layer. Wearing it under your winter woollies can stop it from inflating, increasing your risk of drowning and hypothermia.