Coastguard crews are dealing with one of the busiest Januarys they have seen in years, with emergency callouts tracking close to double last summer’s level as boating activity peaks.
On the Hibiscus Coast, volunteer crews have been responding almost daily, assisting recreational boaties and commercial vessels alike. Recent taskings have ranged from routine breakdowns and fuel issues to more demanding rescues carried out in poor weather and reduced visibility.
Hibiscus Coast Coastguard president Rachel Hessey says many incidents could be avoided with basic preparation, particularly as boats are returned to service after long periods unused. Mechanical failures, flat batteries, and changing conditions remain common factors.
With public holidays still to come, Coastguard is reminding boaties to slow down, wear lifejackets, carry a VHF radio, and lodge a trip report before heading out. Crews stress that calling early can prevent minor problems escalating into serious emergencies.
Rachel tells Susana some vital safety tools boaties should know.
