Popular waterways within the Hunter, including Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie, will be the focus of  Operation Safety First.

With water sport activities popular at this time of year Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald MLC said it was vital that people enjoyed themselves in a safe way.

“There are a few absolute basics when it comes to towing, such as always ensuring anyone being towed is wearing a lifejacket, the observer is fully aware of their responsibilities and above all, the skipper is always responsible for all personnel,” he said.

“The vessel must have a minimum crew of two – the person driving and an observer who sits facing the direction of the person being towed to provide any communication, via standard hand signals, about what is going on in the water to the driver.”

The operation follows January’s crackdown on jet skis.

Mr MacDonald said this latest operation was a timely reminder of best practice on the water.

“The observer also tells the driver about other vessels approaching from behind. The observer must be at least 16 years old and appropriately qualified, as the holder of a boat or personal watercraft licence,” he said.

“It is illegal to tow more than three people and it is crucial all safe distances from other vessels, structures such as bridges, piers and the shore, and most importantly, people who are swimming, diving or snorkelling, are observed.

“Breaches of these regulations will result in on the spot fines.”

The operation started on Saturday and continues until sundown on Sunday, February 25. Here’s a helpful link that outlines what is expected of drivers, observers and the towed person.

“Boating Safety Officers will also be on the look out for boaties who are speeding or whose wash is having a negative impact on other waterway users,” Mr MacDonald said.

Elsewhere on the water this week:

Surfest: Australian Boardriders battle

Surfest loses star to head wound

Haddon comes out on top in Classic decider