Boat operators warned about safety

Islands

THE National Maritime and Safety Authority has warned small craft operators along the country’s coast to observe safety measures when out at sea.
The authority’s executive manager for maritime operations, Captain Kryz Orlowski, said those operators should not overload their boats and they should not drink alcohol or take drugs before taking the boat out to sea.
He said they should carry extra fuel, check their outboard engine before leaving and carry spare parts.
Orlowski said life jackets, bailers, canvas cover, signalling equipment, water collection facilities, food and water should be on board.
There were 85 incidents involving small boats reported to the authority last year.
Orlowski spoke to 150 people at a small-boat workshop in Kimbe, West New Britain, last week.
Training included life-saving equipment, fighting fire, first aid and basic seamanship.