7 safety rules on a yacht

National Yachting and Boating Safety Week took place in the US and UK from 18 to 24 May. The purpose of the event is to familiarize or remind yachtsmen about the safety rules that must be followed on the water.

The non-profit organization BoatUS Foundation, which has been promoting and teaching the principles of safe yachting for about 40 years, has published 7 rules and practical tips that will help you avoid dangerous situations on a yacht.

1. Keep track of dates and expiration dates

Much on board has an expiration date. Fire extinguishers, rescue smoke bombs, life jackets - all of this can fail due to expiration. Monitor your equipment and upgrade or replace it as needed. 

Fire extinguishers (depending on the model) should be refilled on a regular basis and completely replaced with new ones every 7-10 years. Automatic life jackets require constant maintenance as the inflation mechanism may fail. The best solution is to test all equipment before going to sea to ensure it is prepared for emergency situations.

2. Dress comfortably

According to the BoatUS Foundation, 83% of people who drowned in yachting accidents in 2022 were not wearing life jackets. Many boaters ignore wearing a life jacket due to size or appearance concerns. 

Select a life vest by size in advance, choosing from a wide range of vests to suit every taste, color and size. Special purpose vests (for fishing or rowing) are comfortable even on the hottest days. 

Additionally, it is important not only to wear a vest, but also to know where it is so that it is within reach of everyone on board. Please note that different ages require different life jackets.

3. Remember the basics of yachting

Many of us yachtsmen do not go to sea as often as we would like. Sometimes a week-long cruise is all we can afford in a year. This is why it is critically important to brush up on yachting basics and safety. 

It doesn't matter whether you take a short online course or read your favorite book on the topic, the main thing is to remember even the small details. Particular attention should be paid to the MPSS and other international maritime traffic regulations.

4. Safety briefing

Before going to sea, be sure to conduct a safety briefing for the entire crew. This will help protect you, your crew and the vessel. 

Pay special attention to children and those adults who will not be directly involved in the operation of the yacht. Experience shows that it is these crew members who are most often relaxed and less attentive.

5. Notify loved ones

If you are planning a solo trip, be sure to inform your loved ones about your plans, route and expected departure and arrival dates. Also, if possible, notify the Coast Guard of your destination and purpose. In case of an emergency, this will make the search easier and faster.

6. Avoid alcohol

The sea is a dangerous place that requires maximum concentration and attention. You should always be prepared to stand firmly on your feet and hold the steering wheel with one hand. Alcohol only gets in the way in such a situation. 

Alcohol consumption is one of the main risk factors on the water. It is under the influence of alcohol that most deaths on yachts occur. Save the fun with friends or family until you arrive at the nearest marina, or better yet, until you return to shore.

7. Take your time

Before going out to sea, conduct a thorough check of all the yacht's systems. This is especially important for powerboats, where the engine is the only thing that propels the yacht. Pay attention to rigging, engine, steering, electrical systems and other critical components. A thorough preliminary check will help avoid unexpected problems along the way.

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25.05.2024