Water transportation, although a vital means of commuting, comes with its risks.
The recent unfortunate incident involving the Nollywood actor, Pope Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, is a reminder of the importance of boat safety.
Pope, along with three others, lost their lives in a boat incident.
In a video posted by the late actor on his Instagram page on Wednesday, Pope, who was on a boat without a life jacket, told his followers to see how actors risk their lives to entertain them while pleading with the captain to go slowly as he shouted, “I have three children to raise.”
In the caption, he wrote, “See me lamenting… The risk we take to entertain you; crossing river 9ja yesterday with no life jacket… Na wahoooooo… Who does that ??”
The actor was reported to be travelling by boat away from a film set during the shooting of a movie titled, ‘The other side of Life,’ directed by Adamma Luke.
However, in response to the tragic accident, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, led by its President, Ejezie Rollas, suspended film productions involving riverine areas and boat rides.
Additionally, actors have been advised against participating in any project associated with Luke until further notice.
This incident highlights the need for stringent safety measures when traveling by water.
In this piece, According Online highlights 10 crucial safety tips for boat riders to ensure a safer experience:
- Wear life jackets: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket when onboard a boat. Ensure that there are enough life jackets for all passengers.
- Check weather conditions: Before setting off, check weather forecasts to avoid sailing in rough or dangerous conditions that could jeopardise safety.
- Follow safety instructions: Listen attentively to the boat operator or captain’s safety instructions and adhere to them diligently. Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and the location of safety equipment onboard.
- Avoid overloading: Do not exceed the boat’s weight capacity or passenger limit. Overloading can lead to instability and increase the risk of accidents.
- Ensure proper boat maintenance: Regularly maintain the boat, including checking navigation lights, signaling devices, and emergency equipment like fire extinguishers and flares.
- Inform others: Let someone know your boating plans, including your route and estimated return time. This information can be crucial in case of an emergency.
- Be mindful of water conditions: Stay aware of water currents, tides, and potential hazards such as rocks or shallow areas. Navigate at safe speeds and exercise caution near shorelines.
- Monitor fuel levels: Always carry sufficient fuel for your trip and monitor fuel levels regularly. Running out of fuel in open water can be hazardous.
- Ensure children’s safety: Ensure that children wear life jackets and are supervised by adults at all times while onboard. Also, educate them about basic boating safety rules.
- Avoid alcohol and intoxicants: It’s crucial to refrain from consuming alcohol or other intoxicants before or during boat rides. Being sober enables you to make sound decisions and stay alert to potential dangers.
