Article by Capt. Steve Katz
Safety at Sea
The recent news of two missing fisherman off the coast of Florida reminds us all that unexpected events can turn a fun fishing trip into a life or death situation in a matter of minutes.
Here are 6 items that can help you be prepared for the unexpected while on the water. Remember, you do not need to be far offshore to be in distress. A deserted bay or rough inlet can also become a trouble zone. Personal flotation devices, visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, EPIRB, PLB and a Float Plan make up the minimum 6 critical safety items everyone should carry on-board.
Personal flotation devices
A good, reliable personal flotation device for each person on board is a good idea and is also required by law in most jurisdictions.
While these devices may not often be seen or used, they should be inspected often to be sure they are up to the task of being used at a moments notice. They also need to be stored somewhere that is readily accessible. In the event of an emergency, it is a good idea to put the life jacket on before you need it since emergencies often happen faster than you expect and getting to a life jacket after the emergency has started may be too late.
Visual Distress Signals
The United States Coast Guard requires visual distress signals to be carried on all boats (except for the smallest of vessels). Be sure you carry the size, type and quantity for the type of boating you do. When it comes to Pyrotechnic distress signals (flares, etc.) a handheld visual distress signal is visible from around 5 miles. The higher the flare, the better your chances are of being seen. A SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) parachute flare, costing less than $50 each, launches to an altitude of 1,000 feet and can be seen as far away as 35 miles.
Sound Producing Devices
Sound Producing devices can be as simple as a whistle, bell or mechanical device such as an air horn. Having a whistle attached to each life jacket is a great idea and a simple way of communicating across the open water. A good whistle like the “storm whistle”, which is one of the loudest whistles in the world, can be heard for about a 1/2 mile and can even work underwater and costs only around $8.
EPIRB
These devices send out distress signals to worldwide orbiting governmental satellites and local search and rescue assets in case of an emergency.
These devices come in two varieties: Category I and II. A Category I beacon should be mounted in a place where it can detach and float free to the surface. Category II beacons must be deployed manually, so it should be stored in a place where it can be easily reached. All EPIRB’s are required to activate automatically once in the water (and out of the mounting bracket) and transmit an emergency signal for a minimum of 48 hours at full power. An EPIRB is usually registered to the vessel in the country of the vessels home port. EPIRB coverage area is global, using multiple satellites that constantly monitor for a beacon signal. There is no subscription fee to register or use an EPIRB or PLB.
Personal Locator Beacon
A PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is similar to an EPIRB, but is smaller, doesn’t activate automatically and may not transmit the same strength signal for the same duration as a full size EPIRB. Since the PLB is so small, it is designed to be attached to or carried by a person. Not all PLB’s float and most do not float upright (required for the antenna to transmit a signal towards the satellites), so be sure you review your purchase to determine what is best for your use.
PLB’s and EPIRB’s work across the world, at sea as well as on land.
Float Plan
Is a Float Plan old fashion? Can I just call or text someone and give them an update? No! What is a Float Plan? The United states Power Squadron recommends that if you are going out for just a few hours on your boat, let someone know where you expect to be and when you expect to return. If you plan a longer cruise, leave a copy of a written Float Plan with your marina, yacht club or friend. A Float Plan includes a description of your boat, who is on board, a description of the safety equipment you are carrying, where you expect to be and when you expect to be there. Instruct the person holding the Float Plan to notify the Coast Guard or other appropriate agency if you do not return within a reasonable time after your scheduled arrival (considering weather, etc.). When you arrive at your destination, or if your plans change, notify the person holding your Float Plan to avoid unnecessary worry and possible waste of search and rescue resources. There is no official form that you use for a Float Plan, though you may find convenient pre-printed ones available in boating supply stores, or you can generate a customized form using a Float Plan template available from the United States Power Squadron or USCG auxiliary. Do not attempt to file a Float Plan with the Coast Guard because they will not accept them.
At a minimum, having personal flotation devices, visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, EPIRB, PLB and a Float Plan will help prepare you to survive in the event of an emergency. Don’t hesitate to add to this list based on the location and type of boating you do. Other items like a VHF radio, cell phones, GPS, exposure suits, life rafts, rations, etc. are all good add-ons to the basic safety equipment discussed above.
Captain Steve Katz is the owner of Steve’s Marine Service and holds NMEA, AMEI and NMEA2000 certificates along with ABYC Master Technician certification and factory training from many manufacturers. To reach Steve, call 410-231-3191.
