Skippers urged to check all lifejackets
Maritime NZ is asking skippers of all recreational boats, no matter how big or small, to “check your lifejackets”.
The skipper must have lifejackets of the right size for everyone on board and must ensure everyone is wearing a lifejacket at times of heightened risk.
“If they do not have lifejackets they can be fined and can be prosecuted but, in the most tragic situation, no court penalty will ever match the death of a family member or a friend on your boat,” says Safer Boating Forum chairwoman and Maritime NZ deputy director Sharyn Forsyth.
“The skipper is legally responsible for the safety of their boat and all on board, and Maritime NZ takes a strong stance on this.
“We are focusing on lifejackets because they are your number one piece of safety equipment and must be in good condition to save lives.
“Before getting your boat out again consider seriously: ‘Do my lifejackets need replacing?’ Manufacturers recommend replacing lifejackets after about 10 years,” Ms Forsyth says.
Kapok-filled lifejackets should not be used at all. They have not been made since the 1980s and, even if they look brand new and have been well looked after, should be replaced and destroyed.
Kapok is a fluffy, cotton-like plant fibre that can absorb water and cause wearers to sink. Many of these old lifejackets also have cotton straps. Cotton rots over time — even if a lifejacket is not used — and in an emergency can tear or break off.
Simple tests for other styles of lifejackets to do every time before you go on the water:
■ Pull the straps, hard. If any of them stretch or tear, do not use the lifejacket, dispose of it, and replace it.
■ Check for any existing tears or cuts in the straps. If there are any, do not use the lifejacket, dispose of it, and replace it.
■ Check for any tears, cuts, or punctures in the lifejacket. If there are any, do not use the lifejacket, dispose of it, and replace it.
■ Check if it floats.
Information about safety, storage, and details for checking inflatable lifejackets is at www.maritimenz.govt.nz/lifejackets