As the weather warms up and Queenslanders flock to the Coast, the Queensland Police Service and Maritime Safety Queensland have joined forces to warn of the risks of alcohol consumption on the water.
Skippers of hire boats are being targeted, with almost half of last year’s drink driving vessel offences occurring within this group.
Sunshine Coast Water Police Senior Constable Murray Lyons said ignorance was no excuse.
“Safety first is paramount on the waters. Anytime you’re operating a vessel, you have a responsibility to ensure the safety of yourself and others,” Senior Constable Murray said.
“That extends to ensuring you’re under a blood alcohol limit of 0.05—the same as it applies on our roads.
“We’re not the fun police, but we will conduct random breath testing and take enforcement action if you’re doing the wrong thing.
“I’ve seen the heartache serious vessel collisions can cause and alcohol, water and inexperience is a recipe for disaster.
It is also important to remember that you might still be over the limit the next morning if you have had a big night.
There are many myths around alcohol but you need to ensure you leave yourself time for your body to process the alcohol.
Myth#
Drinking milk, coffee or water, taking cold or hot showers, exercising, vomiting or getting out in the fresh air will help you sober up.
Fact#
Whilst they may help you feel slightly better, none of these will help the ‘sobering up’ process. Sobering up takes time. The body of a normal healthy person can only break down approximately one standard drink an hour. There’s nothing you can do to speed up the rate alcohol leaves your system.
Stay safe on the water!
This column is compiled by the Sunshine Coast District Crime Prevention Unit.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
