Sea Safety campaign under way

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) conduct Sea Safety campaign which started on the 1 December 2018 and will be finish on the month of January 2019.

Commissioner of Police Mr Matthew Varley during his weekly Media Conference says, “Sea Safety campaign is continuing. The campaign is led by Solomon Island Maritime Authority and supported by the Police Maritime, Honiara City and our Provincial Police.”

Mr Varley says, “We want to make sure that boats are not over loaded with cargoes and passengers. And make sure passengers and crews are not under the influence of alcohol. It is the responsibility of the boat captain to ensure the safety of the vessel and passengers. Make sure that they have the appropriate safety equipment’s and Communication equipment’s as well.”

“So far we did not received any reports of any sea tragedy incident and that is a good news and we want to keep it that way. But we will be continuing to keep monitoring vessels at major ports around the country particularly in Honiara,” says Mr Varley.

RSIPF would like to remind boat owners and skippers of the importance of sea safety.
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 23658 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