In the interest of our visitors as well as those that use the Knysna Lagoon, or leave it to put to sea, we publish the following 10 hints for marine safety in the Knysna area.
1. Non seagoing craft are strongly advised not to proceed south of Fountain Point (white beacon at the Heads) on an outgoing tide. Besides being extremely dangerous it is against local regulations for all craft that are not in possession of current seaworthy certificates to proceed south of this point.
2. Make sure that non swimmers wear lifejackets that are capable of supporting the wearer in the water in a face-up position. It is also advisable to wear a lifejacket at all time when underway on a boat.
3. Notify somebody responsible on shore of your proposed movements and your estimated time of return prior to launching.
4. Ensure that all seagoing craft comply with the safety requirements and carry all the equipment onboard. For example it does not help to have left your radar reflector left ashore when you are lost in the fog.
5. For your own safety and in terms of local regulations which are enforced by the National Parks Board - " No person shall use any vessel in the water area, unless the following equipment is onboard" :
(a) an efficient, approved lifejacket for each person on board
(b) sufficient oars to land the vessel
(c) a pump or other suitable bailer , unless the vessels design makes this unnecessary
(d) a suitable rear view mirror for any boat towing any skier.
(e) an efficient whistle or siren onboard, which can be employed to prevent collisions.
(f) an efficient fire extinguisher on board motor boats.
(g) when a vessel is used between sunset and sunrise, it must display a white light which is visible from all directions at a distance of at least 200 metres.
6. Power craft must give way to sail.
7. Be considerate and reduce speed when passing anchored craft, craft on moorings and craft tied up alongside a jetty.
8. Always keep a sharp lookout for swimmers and divers (divers should display the international code flag "Alpha" - a blue and white swallow tail flag which signifies "Diver down - keep clear".
9. A power boat in the hands of an inexperienced user can be more dangerous than a motor vehicle. Parents are especially implored to ensure that their children are competent in boat handling and aware of the dangers before allowing them loose on the water on a potentially lethal craft.
10. Skippers of sea going craft who are not familiar with local conditions are strongly advised to inquire from local fishermen or the NSRI before putting to sea. In particular they should inquire as to the state of the Bars in the Heads which at times are treacherous. Mr Henk Busse of the NSRI provides a 24 hour service to all sea going craft equipped with marine radios. Henk can contacted at "Knysna Base" on 29 Mhz Channel "A" and VHF Channel 16.
If in doubt of the safety of a person or craft in the lagoon or at sea please contact the NSRI at Knysna (0445) 22675 or Metro 825610 or the South African Police Services 21212 or 10111
from - http://www.gardenroute.co.za/nsri/nsrikny.htm
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