Don’t put your life on the line

This article appears in the December 2009 edition of Sportshorts.

Summer is here and rock fishers are again being urged to take precautions.

“Rock fishing is a popular and enjoyable pastime – a great way to enjoy the outdoors and our magnificent coastline,” said Matthew Thompson from Surf Life Saving Australia.

“But it is also one of the most dangerous sports in Australia.

“Hazardous weather and tides, coupled with the fact people often set off unprepared, can have devastating consequences.

“Twelve people lost their lives while rock fishing in Australia last year – it’s an alarming figure and one we’d like to reduce,” said Mr Thompson.

Together with fishing and government organisations, Surf Life Saving has been working on a national rock fishing strategy and several key research projects. However, Mr Thompson said ongoing education is essential.

“Education is the most effective way to reduce fatalities. People must understand the risks of rock fishing and how to adequately prepare,” said Mr Thompson.

To help get the safety messages across, an updated series of resources has been released in time for summer.

They include:

• a brochure and poster, both translated into several languages
• a DVD, featuring rugby league and fishing legend Andrew Ettinghausen
• www.safefishing.com.au

Both the collateral and DVD are available on the website. All will be promoted through a print, radio and TV advertising campaign.

The resources and advertising focus on five essential safety messages:

• Always wear a life jacket
• Always check weather conditions and tides before fishing
• Carry a rope and float with you
• Wear light clothing
• Wear shoes with non slip soles.

They also go further by outlining what to do in an emergency:

• Never fish in exposed areas during rough seas, find a calmer spot
• If someone is washed into the ocean, don’t jump in after them
• Look for available angel ring, life buoy or something else that floats
• Throw the life buoy or something that floats to the person in the water
• Dial 112 or 000 on your mobile phone or go to get help.

“One of the most important messages is to wear a life jacket,” said Mr Thompson.

“And we’re emphasising that life jackets are useless unless they are worn, as even those who may take a life jacket, don’t bother to put it on.

“Whether you are an experienced rock fisher or taking it on for the first time, we urge everyone to visit www.safefishing.com.au and find out more.

“Being properly prepared for rock fishing could save your life – don’t put your life on the line,” said Mr Thompson