This time of the year is a very busy time with school having started and more trips between islands and mainland is done via outboard motors, prompting calls from disaster centers for all to listen and follow weather warnings to be safe when travelling by sea.

West New Britain Disaster office is urging all passengers and skippers to regard safety as top priority before travelling.

During this time, students travelling between islands for school must also consider the weather pattern and take heed of the warnings before traveling.

The WNB Disaster Office added that the weather has improved during this month, where it is fine during the day and only winding and bit of rain later in the nights.

“Mostly it is 27-30 degrees Celsius and it's safer travelling during the daytime”.

“All boat owners and skippers are remaindered to register all boats as this is new year and those that needed to renew their registration must do so as soon as possible under the Small crafts act.”

Overcrowding in dinghies is considered a criminal offence and offenders will be charged under the small crafts act.

“All boats must be registered and tagged on the side; crews must all have license as well as permit and life jacket and extra zoom is important to carry, always travelled prepared and always take precaution during this wet season.”