Careless PWC use targeted this summer

The department's Maritime Management Centre has launched a community education program to promote safe and responsible use of such craft.

Following the success of the 2013 Take It Easy campaign, comedians Rob Shehadie and Tahir Bilgic will join RMS education officers at events at Brighton-Le-Sands.

Maritime Management Centre general manager Howard Glenn said all watercraft operators must be extra careful when they are around people, in the water and by the water.

Mr Glenn said complaints about PWC have declined during the past 10 years but they still remain relatively high when compared to other types of boating activities.

In the past 10 years in NSW there have been 167 incidents resulting in 53 serious injuries and five fatalities related to the use of PWC.

"It is important that people riding PWC know and observe the rules for safe and responsible boating," Mr Glenn said. "By being alert and applying care, courtesy and common sense, riders can have fun while respecting others."

The program will be held at lunchtime on Saturday, January 10, Monday, January 26 and Sunday, February 15.

Both the PWC safety campaign ambassadors and the boating safety officers will be reminding people at these events that when on the water it is important to carry a licence, wear a lifejacket, stay at the speed limit and keep a safe distance clear of people in the water and other craft.

Details: rms.nsw.gov.au