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Water Police are reminding jet-ski users to play it safe in the water this summer after a number of people were detected doing the wrong thing in an operation.

As part of Operation Jetwash, Water Police conducted patrols  primarily focusing on jet-ski use and behaviour.

A total of 120 infringements for marine safety offences have been issued during the operation which ran on December 27 and January 3, and will continue throughout the January holiday period.

Infringements included operating within no boating zones, speeding and other safety based offences.

Those breaking the law can face fines of up to $806.

Senior Sergeant Alistair Nisbet said the operation sent a clear message that police would not tolerate unsafe behaviour on the water.

“We’re keeping a keen eye on waterways this summer and we’ll catch up with anyone we see doing the wrong thing,” Sen. Sgt. Nisbet said.

“Jet-skis are heavy pieces of machinery operated in the water environment and are capable of reaching high speeds. Their safe operation is completely within the hands of the user.

“Therefore, when jet-skis are not used in a safe manner they are capable of seriously injuring.

“Users need to ensure they obey No Boating Zones or Swimming Only Zones, with both exclusions and reduced speed limits applying to particular areas around Victoria.

“It is also critical that operators of Personal Water Crafts understand their obligations of distance from shore, people and vessels and that PWCs, along with the operators, are to be equipped with the necessary safety equipment.

“Police are all for people having fun on the water this summer, but it can’t come at the cost of safety.”

Sen. Sgt Nisbet reminded water users that under the Marine Safety Act, anyone caught hooning can have their vessel restricted or seized.

Police will continue to monitor behaviour on waterways across the state over summer, conducting both land and water patrols.