Be A Buddy
If you learn to dive you will most likely learn the buddy system for checking each others equipment before getting in the water. What stopping us using the same safety ethos in sailing? This last weekend before the start of the Vallejo Race I went around the crew and was their ‘buddy’. Out of 10 people what did I find… well a shocking 30% of people’s lifejackets would not have inflated. I was the only person aboard with crotch straps. Although the crotch straps are above the regulations I still wear them inshore as they don’t hamper my ability to do anything and I don’t even realize they are on.
So what was wrong with the lifejackets.
* Cylinder that was not fully screwed in.
* Hydrostatic inflator that had a green indicator however, it was meant to be replaced during 2012.
* No cylinder at all! When you purchase them at the store most of the time the jackets are unarmed when purchasing a new one the mechanism learn how to service it and ensure it is armed. This jacket had been worn for quite a number of years without a cylinder.
Look after each other, stay safe and have fun.
Ashley Perrin
I received an email from one of the people aboard five days later. See below
“Ashley
I got home and checked both my Life Jacket and Terri’s and also went to the Mustang website. We bought those jackets in 2007 and the Hydrostatic releases are due for replacement. I ordered a new set. When they arrive, I am going to put the jacket on and jump in the pool. Our jackets are top of the line 3184s but are not worth much if they don’t work.
When are you running your next Safety at Sea event at SFYC? Let me know, I am interested in attending.
Thanks again for the little quizzes. Complacency with safety gear is dangerous.’