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In regard to the increasing popularity of water sport activities in Hong Kong, the Marine Department, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) held the 2013 Safety Afloat Educational Seminar for the public and boating enthusiasts at the Hong Kong Space Museum today (July 4) as the summer vacation begins. The seminar was organised to arouse the public's awareness on water sport safety and ways to avoid accidents.
Speaking at the seminar, the acting Director of Marine, Mr Ivan Tung, said there were accidents involving swimmers and boat operators in the past several years in waters near beaches. Many accidents related to a lack of safety awareness on the part of water sport participants.
Mr Tung pointed out that the causes of the accidents included inadequate preparation by boat operators and those engaging in water sport activities. He reminded boat operators to check appliances and equipment on board and to familiarise themselves with all the safety precautions and contingency measures. They should make sure that equipment is in good order before setting sail. Batteries should be properly maintained to lower the risk of short circuits and flash fires.
Water sport participants should take heed of weather conditions or warnings before setting sail; boat operators should plan the voyages, and consider whether the waters are suitable for the vessels to navigate and to conduct relevant activities in. There should be enough experienced crew members on board to guide and monitor passengers to follow safe practices when taking part in water sport activities.
Mr Tung added that boat operators and swimmers should be aware of their own and others' safety when taking part in activities. If they see other water sport activities nearby, they should take appropriate safety measures to avoid any possible risk. Before swimming at sea, swimmers should practise their skills and realise their own abilities. They should also refrain from swimming after consumption of food, alcohol or drugs, and should take care of companions and avoid swimming alone or away from companions.
Furthermore, officers of the Marine Police and the Marine Department will continue to step up their patrol activities in speed-restricted zones, waters in the vicinity of popular beaches and water sport sites, and will take action against any illegal or reckless boating activities. The LCSD lifeguards will also keep an eye out for boating activities at beaches and the adjacent waters. They will alert officers of the Marine Department and the Marine Police to take law enforcement action against offenders when necessary.
Mr Tung appealed the industry and the public to co-operate in promoting water sport safety so that everyone can enjoy pleasant leisure activities.
Ends/Thursday, July 4, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:39
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