The sea is as fascinating as it is unpredictable. Every voyage involves certain responsibilities to ensure the safety of all sailors on board. The key to safe navigation is to plan and prepare before setting sail. If you want a complete guide to safety at sea, read on because this is the article for you.
Basic safety rules at sea
çTo ensure safety during any sea voyage, certain basic rules, both local and international, designed to protect navigators, passengers and vessels, must be complied with. Knowing and respecting these regulations is mandatory and key to enjoying a safe experience at sea.
Local and international regulations that every yachtsman should be aware of
- Have all documentation in order. Before setting sail, make sure you have all the necessary documentation, such as navigation permits, vessel registration and crew licenses.
- Right of way. Familiarize yourself with the rules of priority between boats to avoid accidents, such as yielding to larger boats or boats with maneuvering restrictions.
- Respect restricted areas. There are prohibited areas for navigation, such as protected marine parks, military zones or areas with heavy maritime traffic that must be respected.
- Know and respect international regulations. There are rules of the International Regulations to Prevent Collisions (RIPA), which include signals, lights and basic maneuvers to avoid collisions.
Correct use of mandatory safety equipment
- Life jackets. Each person on board must have access to a life jacket in good condition and of the appropriate size. It is recommended that they wear it at all times, especially in adverse conditions.
- First aid kit. Make sure you have a complete first aid kit, including basic medications and supplies for minor emergencies.
- VHF radio. This device is essential for communicating with other boats or authorities in case of emergency. Learn how to use it correctly and check its operation before setting sail.
- Fire extinguishers and flares. Check that the fire extinguishers are charged and that the flares have not expired, as they are crucial for signaling in case of danger.
- Life raft. On larger vessels, the life raft is indispensable as a means of evacuation in extreme situations.
Complying with these rules and using safety equipment properly is vital to minimize risks and ensure that sailing is a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Essential safety equipment for boaters
Having the right safety equipment is essential: they are mandatory and make all the difference in emergency situations. Below, we review the essential equipment for any sailor.
Life jackets: Types and tips for choosing them
Life jackets are the pillar of maritime safety. Some important considerations:
- Types of lifejackets::
- Automatic: Inflate automatically on contact with the water, ideal for more demanding navigations.
- Fixed buoyancy: Manufactured with floating materials, they offer an economical but less compact option. Children’s and pet: Specially designed to ensure the safety of the little ones and animals on board.
- Tips for your choice::
- Check that the vest complies with international regulations.
- Choose a model suitable for the weight and size of each user.
- Periodically check its condition and maintenance.
Communication devices: VHF, GPS and smartphones
Communication at sea is vital, both for emergencies and for coordinating maneuvers:
- VHF Radio: This is the main device for communicating with other vessels and authorities. Make sure you know how to use it and check its range before setting sail.
- GPS: Provides accurate position information and facilitates safe route planning.
- Smartphones: Although they are not a substitute for VHF, they can serve as a backup in areas with coverage. There are specific navigation apps that can be very useful.
Flares and emergency signals
Flares are indispensable for warning of an emergency and facilitating rescue:
- Types of flares:
- Hand-held: They emit an intense light and are ideal for being seen at close range.
- Parachute: Designed to reach great heights, they are visible from far away.
- Tips:
- Check the expiration date.
Store them in an accessible place and protected from humidity.
- Check the expiration date.
First-aid kit adapted for boats
The first aid kit on board must be equipped to deal with specific emergencies at sea:
- Basic items: bandages, gauze, antiseptics, scissors and disposable gloves.
- Essential medicines: painkillers, antihistamines, anti-emetics (for seasickness) and sunburn creams.
- Extras for navigation:
- Water purification tablets.
- Medicines against hypothermia or sunstroke.
Preparing and keeping all this safety equipment in good condition is a responsibility and should not be taken lightly.
Preparation before setting sail
We tell you the steps that every sailor should follow before setting sail.
Plan the route, consult the weather forecast and nautical charts.
- Weather report: Before setting sail, check weather conditions, such as wind speed, swell and possible storms. Use reliable and up-to-date sources to avoid surprises at sea.
- Nautical charts: Analyze possible routes and locate key points such as harbors of refuge, restricted areas and underwater hazards. This will help you navigate safely.
- Alternate plan: Always have an emergency route in case conditions change.
Check the condition of the frame: engine, sails and electrical systems.
Checking the condition of the boat is essential to avoid failures during navigation:
- Engine: Make sure it has enough fuel and is running properly. Check oil and water levels, as well as for leaks.
- Sails: Inspect the sails for tears, wear and tear, or line problems. Proper maintenance ensures optimum performance.
- Electrical systems: Check that navigation lights, VHF radio and other electronic systems are in good condition. The battery should be 100% charged.
Pre-sailing checklist
To make sure you don’t forget any details, use a pre-sailing checklist:
- Safety equipment: life jackets, flares, first aid kit and fire extinguishers.
- Supplies: Drinking water, food, sunscreen and appropriate clothing.
- Documentation: Licenses, boat registration and insurance in order.
- Communication: Check communication devices and notify someone ashore of your sailing plan.
- Anchor condition: Make sure anchor and anchor line are in good condition and ready for use.
Emergency management at sea
Being prepared to manage any unforeseen event at sea is key to ensuring the safety of the crew and the vessel. How to act in case of bad weather: maneuvers and preventive measures Bad weather can come unexpectedly, so it is important to know how to act:
- Reduce speed: Sail at a slower speed to maintain control and reduce the impact of waves.
- Trim the sails: If sailing under sail, reduce the sail area (reefing) to avoid overloading and stabilize the boat.
- Secure inside and outside: Secure loose objects on deck and inside to avoid damage or accidents.
- Proper course: Sail at an angle to the waves to minimize rolling and prevent the boat from losing stability.
- Use of life jackets: Make sure all crew members are wearing them.
Man overboard or abandon ship procedures
In critical situations, speed and coordination are critical:
- Man overboard:
- Shout “Man overboard!” to alert the crew.
- Always keep the person in sight.
- Throw a float or life buoy.
- Stop the engine and maneuver toward the person slowly, preferably on the leeward side.
- Assist the rescue with care to prevent the boat from swinging dangerously.
- Abandon ship:
- Only abandon ship if absolutely necessary: unstable boat or at risk of sinking.
- Be sure to bring life jackets and essential equipment (flares, GPS, drinking water).
- Get everyone into a life raft if available and stay together.
Contacting Maritime Rescue
If the situation requires external assistance, you should contact the rescue services immediately (Salvamento Marítimo) via VHF radio channel 16 or the emergency telephone 112. You should provide the following information: Exact location: Provide GPS coordinates or nearby visible references. Type of emergency: Indicate if it is man overboard, fire, engine failure, etc. Boat and crew status: Mention the number of people on board, if there are any injuries and if you are carrying safety equipment. Name of the boat: Make sure that rescue services can be easily identified. The ability to manage emergencies calmly and effectively is essential to minimize risks and ensure a positive outcome in any adverse situation. As we have seen, sailing requires responsibility and preparation to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Knowing the basic rules, having the right safety equipment and proper planning are essential to enjoy the sea without mishaps. Every voyage can present unexpected challenges so be well equipped and know how to act in every situation. If you want to enjoy a safe and carefree trip, at Sailing Trips Mallorca we offer boat rentals with expert crew, equipped with everything you need to ensure your safety and comfort.