Coastguard urges boaties to prepare for rough weather

As Tropical Cyclone Pam nears towards New Zealand Coastguard urges boaties to get prepared and advises all recreational boat owners to check and secure their vessels before the weather worsens.

Boaties are also reminded that any reports of damaged vessels or vessels that have drifted from moorings should be directed to the relevant Harbour Master for each area.

Georgie Smith, Coastguard spokesperson says “Coastguard as the charity saving lives at sea has volunteers on standby around the coast ready to respond to any one in difficulty on the water, but we urge boaties to be prepared and remember these three simple boating safety rules”

1. Marine Weather – Check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and sea state changes. If in doubt – don’t go out!
2. Skipper Responsibility- The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat. Stay within the limits of your vessel and your experience.
3. Life Jackets – Take Them – Wear Them.
4.
Coastguard has some important reminders for boaties to prevent damage from the pending cyclone:

If on a swing mooring all boaties should:
• Seek a temporary berth in a marina if possible
• Check the mooring pennant and for any chafe points and consider adding additional back-up mooring lines
• Lash sail covers and put an extra line around the furling headsail if fitted (to stop it unfurling)
• Remove any loose gear stowed on deck and stow it below
• Check below to ensure everything is secure in case the boat heels
• Close all seacocks
•
If you are in a marina berth:
• Check all mooring lines for any chafe points and consider adding additional back-up mooring lines. Add extra fenders if the boat is alongside a pontoon or wharf
• Lash sail covers and put an extra line around the furling headsail if fitted (to stop it unfurling)
• Remove any loose gear stowed on deck and stow it below
• Check below to ensure everything is secure in case the boat heel
If ashore (in a yard or on a trailer):
• Lash sail covers and put an extra line around the furling headsail if fitted (to stop it unfurling)
• Remove any loose gear stowed on deck and stow it below
• If a yacht in a boat yard – discuss with the yard operators, but consider attaching halyards down to the ground to reduce the chance of the boat capsizing from its cradle or props
•
Please go to the following websites for more information on Tropical Cyclone Pam and what to do in an emergency:
• Weather information www.metservice.com
• Emergency preparedness www.getthru.govt.nz

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