The best piece of safety kit you have is you. Keep a clear head so you can react to any situation.
Look after you
Keeping warm and dry is important. Once you start to get cold your ability to think and function properly will deteriorate.
Wear clothes made from man-made fabrics rather than cotton which soaks up body moisture and makes you cold. Always take spare clothing with you so you can add layers if necessary as well as a waterproof jacket and trousers, and a hat.
Conversely in hot weather remember your sun cream and hat and keep yourself hydrated.
Alcohol and boating don’t mix
Alcohol will impair your coordination and your ability to think clearly, particularly in an emergency situation. It influences your behaviour and affects your judgement.
The RYA does not condone the drinking of alcohol whilst in charge of a vessel and encourages all boaters to act responsibly in this regard.
Care should also be taken when at anchor, transferring to and from a tender or when walking to and from a boat along a pontoon.
Life jacket or buoyancy aid
Make sure you and your crew have the right personal safety equipment, that they are well maintained and fitted correctly. More information on life jackets and buoyancy aids.
Wear your kill cord
If you are on an open powerboat or RIB make sure you wear the kill cord. If your boat is not fitted with one then get one fitted. The kill cord should be attached around your leg. Always check your kill cord works before you go out on the water. Watch how to attach a kill cord correctly and read more about kill cords and power boating safety.
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