A tether will secure you to the vessel during rough weather, preventing falls overboard. But the question remains: Should I tether to my boat? The simple answer is yes – using a tether can be a crucial safety measure for those on board, especially when sailing in rough conditions or performing tasks that require moving…
A safety harness, in conjunction with tethers and jacklines, plays a crucial role in keeping you secure on deck during challenging weather conditions and preventing you from falling overboard. Harnesses are typically worn around the chest or waist and attach to the boat using a tether (or lanyard), which then connects to a strong point…
A sailing tether, also known as a safety lanyard, is a key component in personal safety equipment used in sailing. The components typically consists of: đź”— Purpose: Its main function is to keep the sailor connected to the boat to prevent them from falling overboard. 🪢 Design & Material: A line or strap usually made…
Staying aboard a vessel is paramount to survival, even more so when sailing solo or short-handed. The chances of recovery of a man overboard when the crew is shorthanded and when the wind gets up are very slight. The clichĂ© that “prevention is better than cure” is most apt with sailing. What is most important…
A jackline is an essential safety feature for sailors, especially when working on the deck in rough conditions. It is a rope, wire, or webbing that stretches from the bow to the stern of a sailboat, providing a secure attachment point for the crew’s safety harness. By connecting their harness to the jackline, sailors can…
Whether you’re a seasoned mariner or a weekend boater, understanding the importance of a reliable EPIRB is crucial for safety. Drawing from my own experiences on the water, I’ve selected options that balance functionality, durability, and ease of use. Join me in navigating these lifesaving devices, ensuring your peace of mind while you enjoy the…
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is something I hope you never have to use in a real-life emergency scenario. That being said, it’s critical that you know how. During my yachting career that’s spanned over 10 years, I have luckily never needed to release one when in grave and imminent danger. But I…
Beacons operating at 406 Mhz, including EPIRBs and PLBs, are required to be registered with the relevant regulatory body in your boating country, like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in America. To register an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon in the United States, you have three options. Don’t worry, I’ll cover Canada, the…
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a device designed to save your life when all else has failed. Having an EPIRB on board not only increases your chances of survival, but regulations in certain situations also require it. But do you need an EPIRB, and if so, which type is best for your…
When submerged in water, a Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) is activated by water pressure at a specific depth, usually around 4 meters. This pressure causes the unit’s release mechanism to function, allowing the liferaft or EPIRB to separate from the sinking vessel and float to the surface. There are different types of HRUs, some of…