Mike Schuler July 24, 2024
A jet skier from Southampton has become the first
person to receive a warning from the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)
under a new water safety law for jet skiers.
The incident occurred on August 4, 2023, at the
entrance to Cowes Harbour when the man, in his 20s, steered his jet ski
directly across the path of an Isle of Wight ferry, coming within meters of its
bow.
The ferry’s master was forced to make take evasive
action to avoid a potential collision. The dangerous maneuver was
observed by officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. The case
was subsequently handled by the MCA, which issued a caution to the jet skier on
July 1, 2024, after admitting to the offense.
“The jet skier was very remorseful and appreciated
that his actions had forced a ferry with many people on board to, essentially,
slam on the brakes,” said MCA Departmental Inspector Lesley Hopker. “At a busy
harbour, on the last day of Cowes Week, this could have had serious
consequences. It’s a timely reminder that even small watercraft are now covered
by maritime law and action will be taken against those breaking the rules.”
The jet skier admitted to breaching Rule 9 of the
International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea (IRPCS),
contrary to Section 4 of The Merchant Shipping (Distress Signals and Prevention
of Collisions) Regulations 1996. The law, which has applied to jet skiers since
March 31 of the previous year under the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order
2023, allows for the prosecution of individuals who endanger others by
operating powered watercraft in a dangerous manner.
gcaptain.com
Δεν υπάρχουν σχόλια:
Δημοσίευση σχολίου