Life saving jackets, a must when sailing

by Ananda KANNANGARA

The Disaster Management Ministry has called upon boat and fishing craft owners countrywide to provide life saving jackets to all those using their craft to ensure the safety of lives in the event of accidents while sailing.

According to a spokesman for the Disaster Management Ministry over 1,200 people especially schoolchildren and youth die annually due to drowning.

Disaster Management Minister, Mahinda Amaraweera told the Sunday Observer that although his Ministry had repeatedly warned fishermen, boat and ferry travellers to use life saving jackets, most of them don't pay heed to such warnings, resulting in a number of valuable lives.

"If travellers use life saving jackets in such craft, their lives would be safe even in the event of accidents,".

Minister Amaraweera said that this matter has also been brought to the notice of the Fisheries Ministry and stern action will be taken against errant fishermen violating the rule.

The Minister also cautioned private boat owners, especially those working for tourist hotels to provide life saving jackets to travellers on pleasure trips.

He also called upon school heads to abide by these regulations when organising water sports events such as rowing.