Be Safe--Poker Run Weekend

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Clifton Skelton/BVI Platinum News

(PLTM) - Participants and supporters of the annual 2017 Leverick Bay Poker Run, to be held on Sunday, May 28th, are being urged to put safety first during the activities.

Premier Hon. Dr. D. Orlando Smith, who has responsibility for Tourism, in a message today, Friday, May 26, said as they prepare to enjoy the event, he is reminding persons to adhere to the rules, regulations and guidelines that have been put in place to ensure safety.

"Both captains and passengers are asked to take the necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of everyone involved."

He said captains should have their “kill cord” attached to them; life vests must be worn by each person on the boat; and participants are to operate only within the designated area (Leverick Bay – Trellis Bay – Foxy’s Taboo, Jost Van Dyke – Scaramouche Restaurant, Soper’s Hole Tortola – Pirates Bight, Norman Island – Tortola Pier Park, Road Harbour, Tortola).

Government agencies, the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) and Virgin Islands Shipping Registry (VISR), have both issued notices to remind boaters of various safety regulations.

The BVIPA has reminded captains and operators to adhere to the 5 knots speed limit when entering or leaving BVI harbours.

When entering harbours, captains and operators should reduce speed when nearing the outermost buoys. While departing harbours, captains and operators should only increase speed after passing the outermost buoys. Captains will be held liable for any damage or injury caused by non-compliance to speed limits.

"I also implore you to read the marine notice issued by the VISR for both participants and supporters," Premier Smith said.

He said, special attention should be paid, always to maintain a sharp lookout for persons in water and other users of our waterways.

All boats should be fit for purpose and fitted with the necessary equipment for safe navigation; the participants should obey the Collision Regulations as well as the rules of the Poker Run competition; and prepare for and practice your emergency response for accidents and incidents such as man overboard, drowning, collision and serious injury etc. prior to the Poker Run.

"As for supporters, you are being asked to be aware of boats going at full speed within the area of the Poker Run during the time of the races; and avoid, if possible, water sport activities in the area of the Poker Run for the duration of the competition if possible," Premier Smith stated.

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