Staying safe on the water this summer boating season and ensuring everything is shipshape on land before enjoying time on the water.

Some prep work needs to be done before people head out on the water, especially if they haven’t used their vessel and gear much over the winter, Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters said.

“Check that your boat and gear are in good working order before you leave home,” Peters said.

Safe speed and carrying lifejackets are essential to a safe trip when heading out to sea for the day, he said.

“The navigational safety bylaws are effectively the road rules on the water, so people must take them seriously to ensure everyone comes home safe.”

Bay of Plenty regional council harbourmaster is joining forces with the biosecurity team and encouraging people to keep our coastline and freshwater pest-free, said Bay of Plenty regional council biosecurity team leader Hamish Lass.

“If you find any type of seaweed, then remove it, bag it, or contain it securely so it can’t get back into the water, and take it ashore for disposal in a rubbish bin,” Lass said,

The finding of exotic freshwater clams (Corbicula) in the Waikato River emphasizes the need for boaters to check that their vessels and trailers are free from pests before using the region’s lakes or rivers.

“Don’t bring back a nasty hitchhiker with you – before you move location, make sure you clean your hull, gear and anchor. "

The discovery of the clams means there is an added responsibility for anyone using the Rotorua lakes to prevent the spread, Bay of Plenty Regional council biosecurity officer Te Wakaunua Te Kurapa, said.

“Anyone using the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes boat ramps must do their bit, follow the rules, and complete self-certification to protect the lakes we all love.”

This summer, it’s not just the public who will be out on the water, said Lass.

“Summer patrols begin this weekend, and compliance checks at the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes boat ramp will increase. Additionally, there will be ongoing surveillance of moored boats to monitor for marine pests,” he said.

Harbourmaster Safer Boating advice:

Do a pre-season check. Charge your batteries, ensure your bilges are clean and dry, check the hull for damage, ensure any bungs are in good condition, test the steering, clean the fuel filter, check the fuel lines, test electrical equipment and ventilate the boat before starting the engine.

Check your gear. Ensure there is a lifejacket for everyone on board. Have two ways to call for help: distress beacons (EPIRB or PLB), VHF radio, mobile phone, flares—navigation, bailing system, anchor, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, torch, throw line, fuel—1/3 to get there, 1/3 to return, and 1/3 in reserve.

Know the rules. Wear a lifejacket, obey the 5-knot rule – 200m within the shore, a structure, a dive flag and within 50m of another person or vessel – know the give way rules.