Marine officers to enforce safety blitz on SA coastlines and rivers

More than 2000 people have fallen foul of marine safety officers so far this year. There’ll be even more by dawn on New Year’s Day.

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Marine safety officers have caught more than 2435 law-breaking boaties and water users in the past year, new figures show.

An additional 10 officers will patrol waters over the holiday period as figures show 1724 cautions and 711 expiations have been issued for a raft of issues from speeding to failing to wear a life jacket.

Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Minister Stephan Knoll said the coastline and river system woiuld be jam-packed full of holiday-makers.

“With more people on the water over this period, there’s an increased risk and we want all South Australians to stay safe, follow the rules and exercise more caution,” Mr Knoll said.

“We want South Australians to have fun on our waters but also make sure they wear their life jackets, have all their safety gear and know the conditions.”

Figures from the Department of Planning Transport and Infrastructure show expiated offences in the last 12 months include:

FAILURE to carry safety equipment – 376 fines

UNREGISTERED boats – 90

FAIL to wear life jacket – 123

EXCEED speed limit – 25

FAIL to wear life jacket at a time of heightened risk – 29

OPERATE unlicensed – 23.

Mr Knoll said Marine Safety Officers would patrol boat ramps this summer to check vessel and safety equipment.

“Their priority is your safety and they are also always willing to help but they may send you ashore if you don’t have the right gear,” he said.

“A day out along the coast or on the river should be fun and enjoyable for everyone – make sure you know how to stay safe on the water.”