As families get together to enjoy the Christmas cheer, heading out on the open water is an attractive option to enjoy the summer heat.
Marine Rescue Ulladulla encourages everyone to enjoy the Pacific Ocean, but urges care and awareness along with it.
One of the main messages, Ulladulla Marine Rescue radio operator John Gregory said is to communicate.
“A key thing to do each time you leave the shore is to log your trip with Marine Rescue, so we know you are out there,” he said.
“By calling when you leave, and providing a couple of details like how many people are on board and a return time, we can ensure we will be out there searching if you are late.
“People generally only call when they are in trouble, but by logging in we could have been searching for the boat for an hour already.”
Life-jackets is a must for those young and old each time you board a boat.
“Life-jackets are absolutely crucial, they must be worn at all times,” Mr Gregory said.
“When the boat flips upside down you don’t have a chance to hop back on and put your life-jacket on.
“Always make sure there are suitable, approved life-jackets on board.”
With a number of boats shaking off the cobwebs from sitting in the shed the last six months, Ulladulla Marine Rescue encourages seafarers to ensure their boat is seaworthy and regularly serviced.
The best rule to follow, however, is to just use basic common sense.
“If there are strong winds and rough waves, just be safe.”
Ulladulla Marine Rescue is hosting three market over the next month on Ulladulla wharf, and hosting a raffle with a Toyota Prado as first prize.
