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Weather forecasting resources and tips

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

All competent sailors need to have a good basic understanding of how to interpret a weather forecast. They also need to be able to interpret the actual conditions they are experiencing. Most weather forecasts present a general picture of what to expect in a given area...

Fire prevention on boats

by Stuart Batley | Emergencies, Preparation

Fire prevention on boats – common causes of fire: • Smoking below decks • Galley cookers • Build-up of butane or propane gas in the bilges • Faulty wiring • Petrol/gasoline vapour in engine bay • Flammable paints and solvents Fire onboard a boat –...

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...

Always have an emergency grab bag to hand when at sea…

by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Emergencies, Preparation

Grab bag: In the event of having to abandon ship, it is recommended to have a designated waterproof bag to carry essential emergency items. These might include items already in use on the boat, as well as some already stored in the bag. Emergency at...

Distress flares – which flare, how & when to use?

by Stuart Batley | Emergencies, Preparation

How to use distress flares at sea Flares should be kept in a waterproof container in an easily accessible location such as a cockpit locker. There are several types of flare for different purposes: Red handheld flares: Use as a line of sight distress signal by day and...