Officers of the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force, Marine Division, are reminding boat operators of the inherent dangers of operating their boats if not properly equipped. Recently the Marine Division has seen a marked increase in the number of calls they are receiving to assist or rescue persons. They have been called to assist persons who have run out of gas, or asked to locate persons who get stranded without any communication or respond to persons who have got caught unprepared for a significant weather change.
The Police encourage you to be prepared by ensuring the following:
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As the vessel operator you must be licensed and you are responsible for the safety of the vessel and of your passengers.
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Ensure that the engine is working properly before launching.
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Ensure that you carry some form of communication, either marine radio or mobile phone and that you inform someone of where you are going and when you will return
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Check that you are carrying all the compulsory safety equipment and you know how to use it.
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Know exactly where you are going, how to get there and any navigation hazards that you may encounter.
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Check the weather prior to launching, and constantly monitor sea conditions to assess if it is safe to continue.
Please visit our web site at www.tcipolice.tc or www.facebook.com/RTCIPF for more information.