THE DIVE FLAG LAW APPLIES TO -

DIVERS, SPEARFISHERMAN, SNORKELERS AND OPEN-WATER SWIMMERS

The purpose of the dive flag is to let other water users know people are in or under the water near your vicinity.

The flag informs other boat users to keep well clear and move at a slow speed. All other boat users must maintain at least 200m distance from the flag or keep their speed to less than 5 knots.

The minimum legal flag size is 600mm high by at least 600mm long. It must be clearly visible from at least 200m away, even when there is no wind.

The Dive Flag should only be flown when people are physically in the water.

Spearfishermen, shore-based divers and other open water snorkelers are advised to tow a dive flag with them.

Dive Flags for specific purposes can be purchased at most quality scuba and spearfishing retailers.

WHAT DOES A DIVE FLAG SAY TO OTHER WATER USERS?

• There are divers, spearfishermen, snorkelers or swimmers nearby, possibly under the surface
• SLOW DOWN! Your speed must be less than 5 knots when within 200 metres of a dive flag

WATCH YOUR POSITION!

Stay within 200 metres of your dive flag. Plan your dive to stay  either close to the boat, or have a surface float (with dive flag) that marks your position for other vessels to take note of and avoid.

Remember, if people are diving, spearfishing, snorkeling or swimming off your boat it is your responsibility, along with the person in the water, to ensure the Dive Flag is being flown while they are in the water.

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