Today, let’s share 4 helpful tips for safer sailing. Sailing has so many benefits. First of all, hitting the waves, either alone or with loved ones, is just a blast. Of course, with any activity that involves water, there is always a risk of potential danger as well.
Safety Starts With Sound Preparation
tips for safer sailing begins before you even head out on the boat. By this, we meant that you should let people know when and where you will be out on the water. Above all, let someone know where you are headed and when you expect to return. At the very least, this will make sure someone is expecting you to come back home. If disaster strikes, there is more of a chance that a search party will be dispatched if someone knows you haven’t returned.
Know the Weather and the Water Conditions
There are plenty of sailing methods. Some are for races while others are slow and steady pleasure cruises. Either way, it is great fun. But it pays to know what you’re getting into. Be absolutely sure to check and recheck the weather conditions. Storms and choppy weather can play havoc with a boat. Safer sailing requires forethought and attention to detail.
Fortunately, races tend to stay closer to the shoreline. In turn, this can lead to a higher chance of a rescue from concerned authorities. Likewise, being further out at sea can be a bit more risky. All the crew members on board should be well trained in emergency procedures. This can include CPR and a wide variety of other training. Always sail with an expert until you are confident in your abilities.
Bring the Right Gear
Sailing is a fairly diverse sport. Depending on the size and type of the craft, there may be any number of different pieces of gear to bring along for the ride. Many of these are recommended or even mandated by authorities like the U.S. Coast Guard.
Some of these items include a Coast Guard approved life jacket or other floatation device. Anyone on a boat, regardless of swimming ability, should always be wearing one of these protective vests. Just be sure to get the proper size for everyone in the family. The life vests should be snug on children, but not restrictive.
A throwable floatation device should also be included. When it comes to rescuing a person from drowning, it is best to avoid swimming to the victim. When possible, throw a floatation device and pull them to safety. This advice is helpful for safer sailing and swimming in general.
Check with Local Regulations and Mandates
Other helpful pieces of gear include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a flashlight. An onboard fire or a nighttime collision can quickly become very dangerous. It is easy to become trapped by a fire or on a darkened craft with no visible help in sight.
Additionally, a bucket and heaving line could also come in quite handy during a disaster. Be sure to check with local authorities about what pieces of gear are recommended for your particular craft. The right gear can absolutely help promote safer sailing.
