Maintaining a proper lookout by sight and hearing as a crew on a vessel is a critically important safety function. Lookouts should be able to spot a potentially dangerous situation and respond efficiently, preventing it from escalating. Rule 5 states: Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as…
Ditch bags, also known as grab, go, or abandon ship bags, should be an essential part of all sailors’ lives. Whether you sail inland, in coastal waters, or offshore away from the protection of land-based agencies, a ditch bag may be the difference between a good or bad outcome. We all know the challenges of…
When it comes to sailing, being prepared for emergencies is paramount. The challenge often lies in understanding what essentials to pack in a ditch bag, how to organize them effectively, and where to store them. Drawing on extensive sailing experience, I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to emergency ditch bags (grab bags). I’ve also ensured that…
When it comes to maritime safety, understanding the differences between EPIRBs and PLBs can be crucial. The challenge often lies in determining which device is more suitable for your specific needs. Leveraging extensive research and a deep understanding of maritime safety protocols, I’ve dissected the key differences and similarities for you. The explanations are both…
It is crucial to have reliable marine emergency beacons on board. This guide clarifies the various types, addressing questions about their use and regulations. I know choosing the right beacons can seem overwhelming. But keep reading to understand each type so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a boating…
This guide to Overboard Location Alert Systems (OLAS) addresses your need to understand and select the best device to enhance safety during your boating adventures. The fear of a man-overboard incident is real and can be overwhelming. As someone who understands the thrill and risks of boating, I share your concern for safety on the…
A personal locator beacon (PLB) is a vital, last-resort SOS emergency rescue device. PLBs are smaller land-based cousins of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) used by boaters. PLBs use a 406 Mhz radio wave frequency distress signal to pinpoint your location and identification data to several satellites. This information is forwarded to local search…
The full name of EPIRB is Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon, and it performs a vital role in keeping mariners safe. As the name implies, EPIRBs are used in an emergency as a location finder for the rescue services to find the survivors of sailors in an emergency. At a Glance:1️⃣ The system is deployed…
An EPIRB (that stands for – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) is designed to activate search and rescue services (SAR) in an emergency at sea and provide sufficient data that is necessary to conduct the rescue operation. EPIRBs At a Glance:1️⃣ The system provides a quick and accurate location of the incident, enabling the most…
Carrying flares and visual distress signals in a vessel registered in the US is a legal requirement as defined by the US Coastguard regulations. Flares are essential safety equipment that may decide the outcome of an emergency. At a Glance:1️⃣ The flares must be in a good state and not be expired. 2️⃣ The boat’s…