Fishing Boat Safety Tips Fishing from boats can be made safer through the following steps:

*   Thorough planning before going out to sea is essential. Ensure that all safety equipment, including the radio, is in good working order.

*   Tell your friends and local deep sea rescue groups your fishing plans, including locations, time of departure and approximate return. Stick to your plans and notify them of your safe return.

*   Do not fish under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

*   Have your boat and motor serviced regularly.

*   Deep sea worthiness and capabilities are important. Update your boating knowledge and practise your skills. Ask for local information if hiring a boat and pay attention to all instructions. They could save your life.

*   Check fuel levels - work out what you might need, then take around twice as much. Running out of fuel is one of the most common reasons for requiring emergency services. Ensure that your fuel is fresh.

*   Always carry tools and spare parts like spark plugs. Spare fuel line, shear pins and propeller.

*   Keep bilges clear and ensure that there is no build up of fuel or fumes.

*   Always carry safety gear and ensure it is in good working order.

*   Make sure life jackets can be easily accessed - if you need them in a hurry they won't be much use to you if kept in a locked compartment or below deck.

*   Children and poor swimmers should wear life jackets at all times

*   Tell a responsible person where you are going and when you will be returning.

*   Twin motors offer a backup if one of the motors breaks down.

*   If possible, fish with someone else, so that if you are injured your partner will be able to call for help.

*   Do not attempt to fish on the white water wash zone around rocks, shore, offshore reefs or other structures.

*   Regularly check weather reports through the coast guard or the national weather service.

*   If the weather looks threatening, head for home.

*   Small boats can be tipped over. Put the load in the centre of the boat and don't overload. When travelling, take waves on the forequarters.

*   Ensure your boat is positively buoyant and will float even if overturned. It is generally better to stay with the boat if it does overturn.

*   Make sure all hooks and lures are stored when not in use.

*   Take special care when launching and retrieving boats, as crushing injuries are common.

*   Do not attempt to take large and underplayed fish into small boats. Sharks, tuna, marlin and others can cause significant damage.

*   Keep fluids up when fishing. Alcohol is not recommended because it can induce dehydration, impair judgement and may lead to prosecution for driving a boat under the influence if consumed in significant quantities. Carry spare water and food in case your boat breaks down.

*   Carefully store sharp implements such as knives and gaffs.

*   In an emergency use your radio, set off your EPIRB* and use your flares when appropriate. Setting off an EPIRB will initiate a wide-scale search that could save your life. If you accidentally set off an EPIRB, advise the authorities immediately.

*EPIRB = Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon