Be Prop Aware
According to NSW Maritime records for the past six years, there have been 41 propeller strike incidents on NSW navigable waters resulting in five fatalities, 39 serious and seven minor injuries.
The risks of serious injuries are high for anyone in the water near moving powerboats. A typical three-bladed propeller spins at around 3200rpm and can make more than 100 impacts per second.
The skipper of every boat is responsible for the safety of their passengers, so every skipper should be vigilant and consider the area around the prop as a hazard zone.
Propeller Precautions
NSW Maritime recommends the following basic guidelines:
- Inspect the area near the back of the boat to ensure the area is all clear before starting the engine.
- Turn the engine off when near people in the water as some propellers may continue to spin, even in neutral.
- Keep a proper look out at all times when underway, especially when near swimmers.
- Stay out of designated swimming areas.
- Observe "distance off" rules and keep clear of people in the water, passive craft and other vessels.
- Brief any person driving the powerboat on the risks.
- Keep all arms and legs inside the boat and not over the bow or sides. Bowriding and 'teak surfing' ( holding onto the stern of a boat that is underway) are illegal in NSW.
- Wear a kill-switch lanyard when boating alone. A kill-switch lanyard is attached to the arm and stops the engine when pulled out.
Skippers can also consider technology such as wireless engine cut-off switches, propeller guards and alternative propulsion systems. The best action, however, is for skippers to take care and encourage all to be prop aware. More information on prop strike and boating safety can be found at www.maritime.nsw.gov.au.
Safety By All Means
