Sailing is an ancient skill once used primarily for maritime combat and to explore new lands and transport goods. Today, sailing is a majestic sport that offers adventure, freedom and relaxation. Like most sports, sailing has its dangers. By carrying the proper safety equipment, you can be confidently prepared for a sailing emergency. Always check local safety equipment requirement laws before embarking.
Personal Floatation Device
Personal flotation devices, commonly called PFDs or life jackets, are a safety item essential for sailing. Life jackets save lives by keeping a person afloat in the water. Many are available in bright colors, which aid in locating a person overboard. Life jackets also help rescuers lift a person into a boat. They come in many different colors, styles and types. Every person on board should have her own PFD.
Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are designed to quickly and easily put out a fire. There are different types of extinguishers that are used for different kinds of fires. The number of onboard fire extinguishers required for sailboats is dependent upon the length of the boat. All crew members should be familiar with how the extinguishers work as well as their locations.
Sound Devices
Sailboats equipped with sound devices, such as foghorns, whistles and bells, can easily signal distress to nearby boaters. Sound devices are also used to inform other vessels of intention to pass and planned course changes. Attach a whistle to each PFD.
Lights
Every boat requires lights at night unless it is docked. Lights should also be turned on when visibility is reduced, such as during fog, rain and stormy weather. Lights allow your boat to be seen by others and lets you see other boats while sailing. Sailboats may use lights for communication. A single white light on top of the mast means the boat is anchored, while red and green running lights show the boat is under sail.
Radio
A VHF radio should be on every sailboat. Having a radio on board will drastically cut the response time of authorities by allowing the crew to directly and quickly communicate with the rescue team. The radio further allows the crew to monitor for other boats' distress calls, shore and weather conditions and other local safety information.
Line and Harness
A safety line and harness provides safety during rough seas, storms and high winds. A safety line and harness allows a crew member to move about the decks without fear of falling overboard. Every member on board should have a safety harness.
Locators
In the event of an emergency, quick response is key to increasing your chance of survival and decreasing chance of injury. Flares, reflectors and strobe lights help the boat to be seen from a distance. Always carry several flares and train all on board to use the flare gun.
Life Raft and Emergency Kit
Store a life raft in an easily accessible area. The life raft should be large enough to accommodate all people on board and be equipped with a canopy. Prepare an emergency kit and seal it in a waterproof bag. Items may include a knife, matches, water or water filter, food and first aid supplies.
Navigational Tools
Today, a common navigational tool used is a global positioning system, or GPS. Always carry extra batteries and attach the GPS to a flotation device. If the GPS is not waterproof, store in a waterproof container. Regardless of what you choose as your first means of navigation, carry additional tools, such as a compass and chart, in case of equipment failure.
References
- Sailing USA: Sailing and Sailboat Safety
- "Safety Preparations for Cruising"; Jeremy R. Hood; 1997
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