WARNINGS of dangerous sea conditions for rock fishing and boating along the NSW coast have been issued for the remainder of the week. Weather bureaus have predicted the possibility of swells of up to 3 metres in some areas, accompanied by strong winds.
These conditions are potentially extremely dangerous for rock fishermen and boating activities. The warnings follow on from the tragic deaths of two rock fishermen in Sydney Harbour last weekend.
Rock fishers are encouraged to follow these safety procedures:
- Choose a safe spot
- Don’t fish alone
- Make sure you have non-slip shoes
- Wear a life jacket and never turn your back on the sea.
NSW Maritime advises boat skippers to always:
- Check the official weather before and during boating
- Ensure the boat and its equipment is suitable for the conditions
- Log on/ off with a Marine Rescue marine radio base for every trip offshore
- Wear a lifejacket
If in doubt, don’t go out.
More information on offshore boating safety at http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/campaigns/offshore.html
Live webcam vision of popular bar crossings at http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/webcams/web-cam.html
Official forecast at http://www.bom.gov.au/
