1. Tie one on
Tie yourself on to a sailboat using the lanyards from the ends of the sails to prevent falling overboard. Especially when you are racing in heavy winds and the boat is keeling to one side, it is very easy to get caught up in the moment while working to increase the speed of the boat by any fraction of a knot. During racing it's difficult to monitor your safety when you are concentrating on the speed and position of the boat. Tie yourself to a secured lanyard before even heading out if the weather shows any indication of getting rough. High seas can come up in a moment and it is much better to be prepared. No one will think any less of you, especially when you are fishing him out of the sea.
2. Any Piece Will do
It is preferable that you tie yourself around the waist with a secure line if you are sailing in high seas, expect rough weather or you will be riding beside large ships that create huge waves. However, if tying up around your mid-section is too restrictive for the duties you need to perform, then tie the line anywhere on your body where it won't easily slip off. Many sailors tie themselves around the ankle, leaving their arms free to work the sails and the steering. It is best done when you will be working primarily in the cockpit. If you will be moving forward more on the boat to work the jib or to ride the rails, you consider tethering yourself to the boat at the wrist. Find a line that is securely anchored to the mast to give you more freedom forward on the boat.
3. Set Your Own Lines
If there are no rigging lines available to tie yourself onto or the captain is one of those sailors who turns his nose up at Mother Nature, you may need to create your own lifeline to tie yourself onto. Use a stanchion near where you will take position during the rough ride or when you begin to feel insecure. Get a spare piece of rope and fold it in half. Run the folded edge through a stanchion and put the rest of the rope through the loop you have created. You can then use the rest of the line to tie yourself wherever is most comfortable and accessible.
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