Newsplash - August 2009

Safety message

Bath time for children can be great fun. It is important that this time in the water is as safe as possible with full supervision for babies, toddlers and children. Drowning can happen quickly and silently so it is vital you follow this water safety advice.

• Prepare everything for the bath in advance so you can stay with your child for the entire time.
• If you have to answer the phone or door, take your child with you rather than leaving them unattended.
• Run only enough water for washing and play.  Belly-button height or about 8 cm is plenty for a child who can sit up on their own.
• Let older siblings join in the fun, rather than putting them in charge.  Older siblings may not recognise when a small child is in danger.
• Keep both the bathroom and laundry doors closed when you’re not using them so that young children can't get to any taps or water sources on their own. 
• Learn how to perform CPR on infants. 

Boating and fishing

Collision Regulations apply to all vessels on the high seas and all waters connected, navigable by seagoing vessels.  There are many small billabongs and other enclosed waters in the Northen Territory where regulations do not strictly apply, but in the interests of courtesy and safety, boat users are asked to observe the following rules:

1. When two powerboats are approaching head on, or nearly head on, each must alter course to starboard (right side) and pass each other’s port (left) side.
2. When overtaking another vessel. The vessel being passed has right of way and you must always keep clear of that vessel.
3. When a vessel is crossing your bow from starboard to port that vessel has right of way and you should keep clear. Stop or reduce speed and pass under the stern, give way to the vessel on your right.
4. When in a narrow channel keep to starboard (right).
5. Vessels proceeding after dark on inland waters should have navigational lights fitted or carry a torch to signal their presence to other vessels as appropriate.
6. Vessels operating in billabongs and other enclosed waterways should proceed at a speed which does not inconvenience or endanger other vessels.

If you are in charge of a boat, you are the skipper, and that means you are responsible for the boat’s safe operation, mechanical and electrical maintenance, being weather-wise and carrying the correct safety equipment.

Know where your safety equipment is stowed and when and how to use it. Ensure that there is a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for every passenger on your boat. Be prepared for the unexpected. Know your responsibilities and familiarise your crew and passengers with their responsibilities.

All of these safety tips should assist you in having a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

This information has been provided courtesy of Department of Planning and Infrastructure. Visit www.marinesafety.nt.gov.au for more information.

Snippets

Boof the Barra and the water safety team recently visited children at Oasis Shopping Centre. The children sang and danced to the ‘Be Water Safety Wise’ song and received water safety goodies including activity books, bubble pens, stickers and tattoos.

AUSTSWIM is the Australian Council for the Teaching of Swimming and Water Safety. AUSTSWIM courses are run in every state and territory of Australia. If you are interested in becoming an AUSTSWIM teacher, you will need to complete the Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety Certificate. This is the base qualification that you must gain before you can attempt any of the elective courses.  For further information please contact Royal Life Saving NT on 1300 885 666 or check out the website www.nt.royallifesaving.com.au

Congratulations to Jenny Verrall of Royal Life Saving NT who was awarded the National Infants Instructor of the Year at the recent AUSTSWIM Conference held on the Gold Coast. Jenny continues to be a great ambassador for water safety in the Northern Territory. 

A Royal Life Saving Grey Medallion is a water safety and lifesaving skills program for adults. The program is aimed at reducing the drowning rates and encouraging healthy, independent and active lifestyles. There are four main components of the program which include water safety knowledge, resuscitation and emergency care, aquatic exercise, personal survival and lifesaving skills.  Further enquiries and bookings can be made by contacting Royal Life Saving NT on 08 8981 5036 or email ntadmin@rlssa.org.au

Water Safety Week 2009 will be celebrated from 21 to 30 September. There are many exciting events and activities planned so be sure to visit our website regularly for updates and competition details www.watersafety.nt.gov.au

Pool Life Saving 2009/2010 season commences Wednesday 9 September 2009.  Please contact Royal Life Saving NT on 08 8981 5036 for further information.

Contact us:  Water Safety Branch
Ph: 1300 301 059 Fax: 8999 8520 Email: watersafety@nt.gov.au
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Dates for your diary

Positions vacant

The Australian Lifesaving Academy NT requires academy course trainers. Casual or part-time trainer positions are available. Please contact Julie Snelling on 08 8985 6588 or email julie.snelling@lifesavingnt.com.au.