Boaters will have a digital guardian angel this summer, with Werribee Coast Guard volunteers launching a smartphone app to monitor trips.
Safe Trx allows boaters to enter their trip details and return times in a system that is monitored 24 hours a day.
“You can set off knowing that if you don’t return by the time given, our response team will be alerted and initiate appropriate action,” Werribee flotilla spokeswoman Cheryl LaBlache said.
“Since Safe Trx periodically sends your location data back to our servers, our response team will be able to ensure help gets directly to you and quickly.”
Werribee Coast Guard has been tending to the safety of Wyndham boaters since the mid-1970s, with a highly trained team of dedicated volunteers attending an average 100 calls for help every year.
Sometimes, the coast guard is called out to preventable incidents.
Ms LaBlache warned boaters to check weather forecasts and wind warnings before heading out, to always wear life jackets, ensure they have sufficient fuel and ensure their vessels are properly maintained.
“The waters around the Werribee area are particularly shallow – keep a careful watch on your depth sounder as sand bars can shift without warning ,” she said.
“All too often we deal with situations where boaters accidentally fall into the water and we urge the wearing of life jackets at all times.
‘‘The difference between bringing you home safely or not can depend on this one piece of safety equipment.’’
Ms LaBlache said boaters had to be aware that conditions on the sea changed quickly.
The Werribee flotilla will hold a boat licence class this Saturday, and other courses throughout the summer.
» Email vf10@coastguard.com.au, phone 0455 136 428 or visit coastguard.com.au
