The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) appeals to people throughout the country to think safety first before embarking on any trip at sea during the current bad weather.
This comes after police continues to receive reports of people missing at sea or encountering difficulties while attempting to travel during this bad weather.
A 21-foot banana boat powered by a 30-horsepower Suzuki outboard motor left Malaupaine Island in the Three Sister Islands for Ahia Village on Ulawa Island on Thursday 25th January 2018. There were three people, two male adults and a boy, reportedly on the boat. Relatives from Ahia village, Ulawa Island confirmed to relatives in Kirakira that the boat with the people have still not arrived at their destination up today (30 January).
In another incident, a banana boat 23 feet long reportedly sunk at Wainoni Point, in East Makira on the afternoon of Saturday 27 January 2018. Information received say that all passengers managed to get ashore and are safe. The boat and OBM were damaged on the reef.
“Sea safety saves lives and it starts with taking simple actions like checking the weather by listening to the SIBC or calling the Met Service. These simple actions can save a life or lives,” says Deputy Commissioner, Operations, Gabriel Manelusi.
Deputy Commissioner Manelusi adds: “Let your relatives know about your travelling plans including your expected time of arrival at your destination. Do not over load your boats, wear life jackets, take extra fuel, water and food and if you start your trip and the weather becomes bad, take shelter until the sea is calm”
“Make sure your boat is seaworthy as well as your OBM and ensure that your skipper knows the route you are travelling and must be sober Do not consume alcohol during the trip”, says Mr Manelusi.
Deputy Commissioner Manelusi emphasises: “If we follow these simple actions then we will not unnecessarily lose lives. Let us all work together to keep safe.”
If you are at sea and need help, contact the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) on phone 21609 or 27685, or toll free 977. You can also call the Police Communication Centre on 23666 or toll free 999.