Preparation Archives - Page 26 of 29 - Safe Skipper Boating & Safety Afloat Apps for phones & tablets

How to predict wind direction and strength by reading a weather chart

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Navigation, Preparation

Weather charts, also known as surface pressure or synoptic charts, contain a lot of information that helps weather forecasters make predictions about the weather and sea conditions. Before going to sea it is always a good idea to study weather charts and work out how...

Safety Briefings – leave nothing to chance

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Navigation, Preparation

Before giving your crew a safety briefing, it is worth considering the specific circumstances of the planned trip, the experience of the crew and their familiarity with the vessel and each other. If the crew already know the drill inside out and you know each other...

Boat Engine Failure – what to check

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Emergencies, Preparation

Engine failure If your engine fails or is overheating there are a number of things to check immediately: • Air filter blocked – check, clean or replace • Cooling water low – fill when engine is cold. Check for leaking hoses • Exhaust pipe blocked • Fuel...

Boating Rules of the Road – International ColRegs

by Stuart Batley | Navigation, Preparation

International ColRegs Rule 7: Risk of Collision Anyone who is responsible for a vessel at sea, from the smallest dinghy to an ocean going supertanker, must be able to recognise other vessels around them day or night, whatever the visibility. They need to...

Man Overboard Drill

by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Emergencies, Preparation

How to respond to crew overboard under sail • Keep the MOB in sight • Tack into the heave-to position, do not adjust the headsail sheets • If under spinnaker, alter course to windward and haul sail down immediately • Throw buoyancy to the MOB • Mark MOB with dan buoy...

ColRegs when sailing single handed

by Stuart Batley | Navigation, Preparation

Don’t neglect the Colregs when sailing single handed Sailing single-handed represents several challenges for skippers, not least how to manage sleep, keep watch at all times, and avoid breaching IRPCS Colregs Rule 5. If you can’t keep a look out whilst...