GESPONSORD ARTIKEL
Are you all set for the season ahead? Now’s the time to reduce the risk and boost your skills.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (of which HM Coastguard is a part), the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have joined forces in a new safety campaign encouraging the yachting and motorboating communities to prepare themselves and their vessels for the new season.
Rescue statistics
In 2024, RNLI lifeboats launched 1,900 times to powered boat users and sailors, aiding 1,447 people and saving 42 lives. Simple preparations can help you avoid becoming a rescue statistic.
Get your free checklists now
There’s comprehensive free checklists that will help you to refresh your skills and prepare your vessel for the new boating season. They are free to download from the campaign page on the RNLI website. Laminated copies to keep on board will also be free and available next month too from the MCA web shop!
What’s included?
The lists include reminders to check the weather forecast and tide times, onboard safety equipment and making sure your crew are wearing appropriate clothing for the conditions. A crew briefing card is included which encourages people to discuss the passage plan and expected weather, check for any medical conditions amongst the crew and check lifejackets are fitted correctly.
There’s also a checklist for use when you’re underway, as well as an emergency action plan should things go wrong, including the emergency VHF radio calling procedure.
Be prepared and stay safe
Derrick Jones, Assistant Chief Coastguard for HM Coastguard, part of the MCA, said: ‘Through this important campaign, we’re pleased to work alongside partners from the RNLI and RYA to raise awareness of the risks involved in recreational boating, and the skills needed to provide the best chance of safe rescue.
“We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the water, but it’s essential that all levels of boater, from beginner to experienced, are properly equipped to handle emergency situations that can occur on the water at any time of year, and in any conditions.
“From the effective use of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) to lifejackets, essential checklists and crew drills such as Man Overboard procedures, we want to highlight that safety should be the first consideration before taking to the water this season.’
Find out more from HM Coastguard HERE