THEY’RE not just out on our roads this festive season, as police also set their sights on our local waterways to ensure we stay safe.
Senior police have warned locals to remain safety conscious when out on the region’s dams this summer.
Scores of officers are expected to take to the waterways on weekends, weekdays and public holidays in a bid to ensure the summer remains incident-free.
“Everything is going well and we hope it stays that way,” Oxley Local Area Command acting Inspector Michael Moy told The Leader.
“We are starting our patrols at Chaffey, Lake Keepit and Split Rock and we are going to maintain those patrols over the holiday period.”
Acting Inspector Moy said it was important that when out boating people were reminded that they were sharing the waterways with others.
He also urged locals not to get too carried away with Christmas drinking with alcohol limits applicable.
“We will be conducting breath testing and safety equipment checks on all vessels we stop,” Acting Inspector Moy said.
“We want to remind people to drive boats sensibly and adhere to the maritime rules, particularly regarding alcohol and speed on the water.
“If you’re in charge of a vessel, the same alcohol limits apply as the driver of a motor vehicle, you need to be under .05.”
Acting Inspector Moy also urged anyone involved in water sports to ensure there is a spotter on board the boat to keep an eye on water skiers.
“There should be a life jacket for each one on board the vessel,” he said.
“We are occasionally getting complaints about jet skis and also boats going too close to people.
“Make sure to keep your distance.”
The veteran police officer said officers would be scheduling their patrols in peak periods.
He also encouraged campers to be sensible and respectful.
“This period we haven’t (had any incidents) and we are hoping it stays this way.
“We will have high visibility all through this period.”
