Ending up in the water is one of the greatest risks to the safety of boaters and paddlers in cool Victorian waters. It happens to the best of us, and often for reasons out of our control.

Preparing to survive is a skill. Preparing to survive is part of mastering your control of your vessel, and your knowledge of the environment.

Maritime Safety Victoria experts advise that there are five fundamental steps to help ensure your survival.

Click on the headings below for a personal story from each of the Five Fundamental Steps.

1. Know the Weather 

2. Practice Getting Back Onboard

3. Carry a Distress Beacon

4. Lock in a "Buddy Plan"

5. Wear a Lifejacket

Resources

• Maintenance and operation tips: Stay Safer Dinghy Sailing (Australian Sailing)

• Safety advice and courses: Discover Sailing (Australian Sailing)

• Laser sailing: How to and Class rules (International Laser Class Association)

• Trip monitoring: SafeTrx app (Coast Guard)

• Newsletter Article from Sailing Australia

Marine Safety Victoria can post any of the following resources to your club:

• Boating Safety Handbooks
• VHF Channel Sticker
• Buoyage System Stickers
• Various other publications

For more information, please email education@transportsafety.vic.gov.au