Prizes for Safer Boating Week

Lifejackets save lives. Photo/file

The traditional start of the boating season is coming and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council is holding events to help boaties get prepared.

Safer Boating Week takes place ahead of the traditional start of the recreational boating season at Labour Day weekend and is a great opportunity to remind boaties to dust off the safety gear and ensure it was all in working order.

To mark the beginning of the season, the regional council has a bunch of events lined up with giveaways, resources and helpful tips like how to service your inflatable life jacket.

The regional council would also be giving away a three person sea biscuit, a Test Pilot Torpedo, and lifejacket worth more than $500.

Bay of Plenty harbourmaster Peter Buell said this summer the maritime team would start promoting three simple messages to save lives; prep your boat, check your gear and know the rules.

Mr Buell's top tips for the season ahead included:
• Prep your boat - service your engine, check and change the fuel, check the battery, and generally give the boat a good once over
• Check your gear - make sure your lifejackets are still fit for purpose and you have enough, service any inflatable lifejackets and ensure you have two reliable forms of communication equipment that will work when wet.
• Know the rules - ensure you know the rules of the road on the water for Bay of Plenty.

"As always, before you hit the water check the marine weather tide forecast and always tell someone where you are going and when you will be back," Mr Buell said.

Safer Boating Week events:

• Coastguard Rotorua Lakes tomorrow from 9am to 4pm

• Bowentown boat ramp tomorrow from 12pm to 5pm

• Sulphur Point boat ramp on Sunday from 10am to 5pm