STRATEGIES & ACTIVITIES
| Patrols Marine watch patrols are conducted on a frequent and random basis. They provide a visible deterrent to anyone contemplating criminal activities. Over time, the patrolled areas become known to thieves as areas to be avoided. Patrols extend the eyes and ears of the Water Police. Our role is to observe and report but not intervene. Any suspect activity is reported immediately to the Water Police and the patrol will stand off and observe (or shadow) until the Water Police arrive. A patrol may then continue to assist the police as directed. While all boat owners benefit from our activities, members' vessels are given special attention during patrols and the owners will be contacted by the patrol if anything unusual is discovered. Members who own small to medium size power craft are encouraged to participate in running patrols. The cost of fuel used while on patrol may be claimed and reimbursed at Marine Watch General Meetings. Other members are encouraged to offer their time to assist these patrols. |
| Reporting to Police MHMW encourages the reporting to the Water Police of any suspicious activity, theft, forced entry or vandalism. There are many good reasons for doing so. Most obviously, alerting police to suspicious activity can result in criminals being apprehended during or shortly following a theft and property recovery is then more likely. While the chance of recovering stolen property in most cases is relatively low, it is still important to report it. Gathering intelligence enables the police to form a more accurate picture of events and to allocate resources effectively. Report marine related incidents to the Water Police on 1800 658 784 (toll free 24 hours). |
| Reporting to NSW Maritime Members and the general public may report to NSW Maritime Authority a range of matters such as sinking vessels and open hatches. A Boating Service Officer will render assistance and contact the owner. Missing or damaged moorings and navigation aids should be reported to NSW Maritime. Contact the NSW Maritime Authority on 9563 8511 during office hours. The Boating Services Officer can be contacted on 0418 618 434 between 7:00am and 7:00pm (outside these hours in an emergency) |
| Dinghies We seek to ensure dinghies are kept secured when left unattended on the waterfront. This denies potential criminals the means to access moored boats. |
| Marking Property We recommend that property be engraved or suitably marked to make it less attractive to thieves and to help police identify recovered stolen property. |
| Foreshore Residents Residents with views over mooring areas are ideally placed to assist in combating marine crime. Anyone noticing suspicious or unusual behaviour is encouraged to report it to the Water Police. |
|
Night Watches Night watches are where members are encouraged to stay overnight on their vessel, presenting an overt image that someone is on board, therby acting as a deterrent to would be thieves and vandals. |
| Alarm Systems There are a number of commercially available alarm systems designed specifically for marine applications. They are a powerful deterrent to would-be thieves. |
|
Watch Logging Night watchers log on and off with Marine Area Command by mobile phone and are thus covered by insurance. Any suspicious activity is reported to MAC. The role is to observe and report, but avoid becoming directly involved in any incident. |
Introduction | Strategies | News | Sector Map | Committee | Membership | MW Library
.
