BASIC POWERBOATING. SAFETY & RESCUE FOR SAILING INSTRUCTORS 7 PREPARATION


In addition to an appropriate number of trained personnel, preparation for the task and conditions is a key element. Preparation improves the safety of on-the-water training sessions, as well as the response to emergency and rescue situations.


Risk Assessment. You need to be aware of the risks involved with different boats and situations as well as the limitations of the boaters. If it is a rescue operation, assessment of the person’s condition and taking appropriate action will be top priority.


Weather & Sea Conditions. Before departure, current conditions and forecasts need to be obtained and reviewed. While on the water, check for updated forecasts at least every hour to avoid being blindsided by unexpected weather changes. Marine VHF radios, mobile phone applications, and the internet are sources for this information.


Tides & Currents. In areas affected by tides or currents, changes in high and low water levels, or direction and strength of currents, may have a significant effect on your navigation and rescue operations. Information is available on mobile phone applications, the internet, and many GPS units.


Preparedness for Sudden or Unexpected Weather. This may include squalls, thunderstorms, or fog. Ideally, the crew should have a preplanned navigation plan for returning to home port in the event of fog or severe weather. Simple possession of a GPS is often not enough, and should be backed up with a navigation plan.


Awareness & Identification of Local Hazards. It is important to know the local hazards in the area of operation. Are there rocks, shoals, coastal bars, shipping channels, dams, power lines over or under the water, or other obstructions? If you plan to operate outside your normal area, review the relevant chart(s), as well as the Local Notices to Mariners, beforehand and carry an up-to-date chart on the boat. If involved in supervising an on-the-water course or event, all participants should be informed of any local hazards and the boundaries of their area of operation.


ONLINE... Local Notice to Mariners: http://www.navcen.uscg. gov/?pageName=lnmMain


Table of Contents


An image from a mobile phone depicting a marine forecast for an area on the California coast.


Local Notices to Mariners are available on the internet and include important information affecting safe navigation.


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