Seminar promotes water sport safety (with photos)
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The MD reminded coxswains and vessel operators to make appropriate preparations before setting sail for water sport activities. They should plan the voyages and consider whether the vessel's structure is suitable for the water area and the activity to be conducted. There should be enough experienced crew members on board to guide passengers to follow safety instructions when engaging in water sport activities. Coxswains and vessel operators should also familiarise themselves with all the safety precautions and contingency measures, check the vessel's structure and its safety equipment on board before setting sail, and know the location of the equipment and how to use it. They should also collect sufficient weather forecast information for the whole voyage and take heed of weather conditions or warnings.
Coxswains operating pleasure vessels should not enter shallow or dangerous waters, and should navigate slowly in speed-restricted zones or waters with others taking part in water sport activities. Vessel operators should take appropriate safety measures to avoid any possible risk if they see other water sport activities nearby.
In addition, the MD plans to step up regulation on small open cruisers, i.e. open cruisers with an overall length of not more than 3 metres and fitted with an engine with total propulsion power of not more than 3 kilowatts, by introducing conditions in the Operating Licences of these vessels to impose restrictions on their operating area and circumstances. The MD will consult the industry on the proposed amendments at an appropriate time.
Swimmers should swim at beaches with lifeguards on duty, stay inside the beach area and avoid swimming near anchored vessels. They should understand their physical abilities, take care of their children and avoid swimming alone or away from companions. They should also refrain from swimming right after consumption of food, alcohol or drugs.
The MD will continue its promotional and educational work to enhance the safety awareness of the public. To further enhance public awareness in the use of local vessels during water sport activities, the MD is going to produce promotional leaflets to provide safety advice concerning various water sport activities.
Officers of the Marine Police and the MD will step up their patrol activities in speed-restricted zones, waters in the vicinity of popular beaches and water sport sites, and will take action against any illegal or reckless boating activities. The LCSD lifeguards will also keep an eye out for boating activities at beaches and the adjacent waters. They will alert officers of the MD and the Marine Police to take law enforcement action against offenders when necessary.
The MD hopes that the industry and the public will co-operate in promoting water sport safety, so that everyone can enjoy pleasant leisure activities.
Ends/Monday, May 22, 2017
Issued at HKT 16:56
Issued at HKT 16:56
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