CHAPTER 9 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
E Capsizing E Heaving-To E Running Aground E Signaling Distress E Overboard Rescue
CAPSIZING TIP
Remember the Golden Rule: always stay with your boat!
Capsizing is one of the most dangerous aspects of sailing. The type of boat, the side of the boat on which the sails go into the water, the number of sailors on board, the wind strength, the sea conditions and the boat’s position relative to the wind will be different for every capsize. Before setting out on a plan of action, it is best to analyze each situation for its unique variables before determining the best method of capsize recovery.
In any capsize, safety of the sailors is the most important consideration. Immediately after a capsize, make sure everyone is okay. Once in the water, everyone must stay with the boat. Keeping contact with the hull is important, so hold onto the boat to make sure you do not drift away.
Be aware of the fact that the boat may turn completely upside down into a turtle position. If your hull does roll over you, there may be an airspace in the cockpit where you can take a few breaths, assess the situation, and be sure no lines are wrapped around you. Then, as soon as you are able, swim out from under the boat and begin your turtled boat recovery. This airspace should only be used in an emergency situation. Please note, not all boats will have an adequate airspace. Seek advice from a certified sailing instructor who is familiar with your class of boat.
SINGLEHANDED AND DOUBLEHANDED WALKOVER (DRY) CAPSIZE RECOVERY: A walkover capsize in singlehanded and most doublehanded boats allows sailors to right the boat faster, avoid turtling and, less importantly, stay dry. This maneuver requires practice and good timing. A walkover capsize requires the sailor(s) to move swiftly, both as the boat capsizes and again as the boat is righted.
TIP
Make sure your boat is perpendicular to the wind.
Follow these steps for a walkover (dry) capsize recovery: 1 As the boat begins to capsize, climb over the high rail and stand on the centerboard. If you cannot perform a walkover, drop into the water quickly to prevent the boat from turtling. If you do end up in the water, make sure the mainsheet is free to run and, while maintaining contact with the boat, swim around the stern to the centerboard. Pull yourself up onto the centerboard.
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