At a recent MCA meeting, it was highlighted that all boat owners need to be aware of the implications and personal responsibilities required by local authorities when accessing the coastal water and being afloat.

Before setting out on the water will you be prepared at launch?  All boat owners, whether powered fast craft or not, need to be aware of the implications and personal responsibilities required by local authorities and harbor authorities  when accessing the coastal water and being afloat. This is particularly the case in busy recreational areas such as the Solent ,other major sea side resorts and harbors where zoning or other control measure are likely to be in place . At a recent SE Coast safety meeting with a range of water users the Maritime and Coastguard Agency again underline that the following safety steps which should be followed::

1. Having decided where to go boating you must research the local by-laws and access point information. Check the tide times as well, this is useful for slipways and checking that areas you maybe boating in are not going to be hazardous to you and your vessel.
2. Make sure you have the right safety equipment example: lifejackets, helmets, VHF radio and/or mobile phone in waterproof pouch, mini flares, drinking water, tow rope, knife, and enough fuel and sun cream. (this should be a minimum requirement) Remember boats without navigational aids should not be out after dusk. Always let someone ashore know that you are going out and what time you are expected back. 
3. When you have arrived at the desired launch site, make sure you are fully aware that you know and adhere to all the rules and regulations including zoned areas, speed restrictions. 
4. When launching your boat beware of others and that they may need a hand if they are in trouble, one day you might need help! Make sure your trailer is put in the designated area and locked. If you have to pay for parking or launching be sure to have paid prior to departure, you don't  want to be get clamped... makes life difficult on your return if you can’t get your boat out of the water. 
5. When on the water adhere to all the local bylaws and normal collision at sea regulations.
6. Do not cause any distress to other vessels including passing boats to closely especially yachts and watch your wash. 
7. Do not drink and drive! as our slog goes 'Water on the water' Beer on the Pier'  New alcohol legislation is in the pipeline which will affect you.

Have a fantantic time on the water.... be safe means fun for all! Bad seamanship stops others from enjoying these.

For further information log onto

 MCGA: http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga-safety_information.htm

RNLI:    http://www.rnli.org.uk/what_we_do/sea_and_beach_safety/sea_and_beach_safety

RYA      http://www.rya.org.uk/KnowledgeBase/

Also look on coastguards and local harbour masters websites in your area.