Four people are confirmed dead at sea while travelling from Toa to Burungia Village in the Central Province yesterday (15 August 2018) in a motorised boat.
Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Central Province, Superintendent Patricia Leta says, “The four people died when their boat sank in rough seas when they were travelling from Toa to Burungia Village.”
PPC Leta says “At least 12 people are confirmed to have survived the sea tragedy. Among the survivors are children and adults.”
Superintendent Leta says,” It was alleged that they were travelling in a boat colored white and orange. The loading capacity of the boat was six passengers but a total of 16 boarded the boat with loads of food.”
She adds: "A normal police enquiry will open and police at Tulagi will work closely with relatives of the deceased and the survivors.”
“I like to share my sympathy and condolences on behalf of police to the families and relatives of those who lost their lives during this tragic incident,” says PPC Leta.
Ms Leta further adds: “I must keep on reminding my people in Central Province that before you travel, please plan your trip properly. Here are some safety points to remember before travelling:
• Plan your trip and let at least a member of your family know where you are going and what time you expect to arrive;
• Check the weather on SIBC or call the Met Service on 27658 or toll free 933;
• If you start your trip and the weather becomes bad, seek shelter until the sea is calm;
• Make sure your boat is seaworthy and your OBM is serviced and maintained;
• Know your skipper. Make sure they are experienced in driving boats;
• Do not overload your boat;
• Wear life jackets. Take food and water, paddles, first aid kit, anchor and rope, mirror to signal others, tools, bucket, torch, phone, flares and EPIRB;
• Take extra fuel;
• If your skipper is drunk, do not go with them or let them control the boat; and
• If you require help at sea call the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) on phone 21609 or 27685 or the toll free phone 977; or call the RSIPF National Communication Centre on phone 23666 or the toll free phone 999.
Safety at sea starts with you. IF YOU ARE NOT TOO SURE, STAY ASHORE.”