“Roads and Maritime Services boating safety officers and boating education officers across NSW will be engaging with people on the water and at boat ramps, clubs and other waterside locations to promote safe and responsible boating,” an RMS spokesman said.

Almost 500,000 people hold a NSW boat licence, and many thousands more enjoy boating as passengers or crew.

There are almost 240,000 registered vessels in the State.

“With the arrival of spring and the next boating season starting on the October long weekend, now is the time to check the boat, motor and equipment are in good working order as the major causes of breakdown at sea are engine failure, fuel shortage or contamination, mechanical failure and battery failure,” the spokesman said.

“It is also the time to check all lifejackets, especially inflatable models, to ensure they are in good condition and have been serviced according to the manufacturer’s requirements. People should wear a lifejacket when boating, especially in smaller craft.

“Other boating safety equipment should also be carefully inspected and items like flares, distress beacons and fire extinguishers should be replaced if they have passed their expiry date.

“Now is also the time to pay attention to the condition of boat trailers, with appropriate maintenance or service. Boats kept on moorings should have their moorings serviced at least annually or more frequently if subject to specific mooring conditions. 

“Roads and Maritime strongly recommends the service be carried out by a professional mooring contractor.

“Boaters should ensure up-to-date charts and local boating maps are on board for each and every new waterway being explored, and ensure boating lights are in working order regardless of whether a boat trip is only planned for the day time.”

* For a complete list of the safety equipment that must be carried on your boat, check your copy of the Boating Handbook or visit the website at http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime.