Sailing Safety Introduction

Emergencies at sea extend from simple and almost funny episodes to major challenges that are extremely serious. When sailing goes well, life is good and we wish it would continue that way indefinitely. However, things can go wrong and when they do sailors must be prepared—including calling for help.

The best strategy is to try to prevent emergencies from happening. This translates into the following:

• Practice safety. Safe behavior is insurance against an emergency.
• Learn the established rules. This is also a legal issue.
• Know your vessel and its capabilities thoroughly.
• Know your boat’s equipment, how to use it, and maintain it.
• Know yourself and your crew. This requires honesty, tact, and finesse.
• Prepare for possible problems. Have backup plans.
• Learn how to read weather forecasts. Get a forecast every time you go out.
• Use common sense, also known as good seamanship (you know what that is).
• Be patient, courteous, and always prudent.

Safe practices and emergencies have much in common. Violating safety practices and the probability of emergencies increases dramatically.  Rules for the proper use of vessels and behaviors have been established and agreed upon; when followed, emergencies are less likely to happen.

The U. S. Coast Guard has established safety and emergency procedures that work globally. They have a variety of detailed publications and bulletins accessible 

• USCG Boater Safety Website