by Stuart Batley | Emergencies, Preparation
How to use distress flares at sea Flares should be kept in a waterproof container in an easily accessible location such as a cockpit locker. There are several types of flare for different purposes: Red handheld flares: Use as a line of sight distress signal by day and...
by Stuart Batley | Navigation, Preparation
International ColRegs Rule 7: Risk of Collision Anyone who is responsible for a vessel at sea, from the smallest dinghy to an ocean going supertanker, must be able to recognise other vessels around them day or night, whatever the visibility. They need to...
by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Emergencies, Preparation
How to respond to crew overboard under sail • Keep the MOB in sight • Tack into the heave-to position, do not adjust the headsail sheets • If under spinnaker, alter course to windward and haul sail down immediately • Throw buoyancy to the MOB • Mark MOB with dan buoy...
by Stuart Batley | Navigation, Preparation
Don’t neglect the Colregs when sailing single handed Sailing single-handed represents several challenges for skippers, not least how to manage sleep, keep watch at all times, and avoid breaching IRPCS Colregs Rule 5. If you can’t keep a look out whilst...
by Stuart Batley | Communications, Emergencies
How to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call How to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call if a vessel or person is in grave and imminent danger and immediate assistance is required: • Check that your VHF radio is on and high power setting is selected Select Channel 16...