A STEADY stream of water enthusiasts were at the Wimmera River on Thursday to hear from Maritime Safety Victoria.
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Three education officers visited Horsham for the water safety information session between 4pm and 7pm.
Horsham Rural City Council sustainability and recreation project officer Mandy Kirsopp said people gained valuable information from their conversations with the education officers.
She said several people were surprised with the information they received.
“Most people were seeking assistance and information regarding the correct type of life jackets they should wear, when they should be used, how often they should be checked and by whom,” she said.
“Several people were surprised with the information, discovering that people in boats and on a water craft of less than 4.8 metres in length must wear an appropriate life jacket at all times.
“Some people had recently purchased kayaks and were not aware of this requirement.”
Ms Kirsopp said a handy tip for kayak owners was to write a contact number on the vessel.
“This helps locate the owner of the kayak and can alleviate safety concerns if the boat is found abandoned in the water,” she said.
Also discussed were life jackets, flares and equipment required for fishing boats and other vessels.
“They need to be regularly checked and people are advised to seek more information regarding this requirement from Maritime Safety Victoria,” she said.