Another lifejacket question, sorry

[Badger]

As I have been off the water since 2003, I just wanted to check if this has changed. When doing ther safety briefing to crew back then the advice to them on lifejackets went along the lines off find one and fit it before we set off. Put it somewhere where you can find it quickly. Wear it all the time if you wish, or when I ask/tell you to wear it eg Fog or heavy weather etc. Is this still considered best practice or have things moved in the last 6 years ? Thanks Badger

 

[PetiteFleur]

That's juat about what I do; exceptions are when the grandchildren are on board and we are at sea, everyone wears a L/J. When in the river and in a marina this rule is relaxed(they are both excellent swimmers). They have their own lifejackets which are adjusted to fit on boarding and they are in charge of them. So far they have been very good about wearing them. All non-swimmers must wear L/j's all the time. Oh yes - I forgot the crotch straps - after the Ouzo incident all my l/j's now have them.

 

[saltwater_gypsy]

Of course things have moved on!!!!
You should now carefully fit your life jacket, adjust the crotch straps, fit the hood and safety line. Then attach the safety light and the LifeTag as well as the personal EPIRB. It is also good sense to carry some small flares and a laser torch. Some glucose tablets will come in useful and all of this will be to best advantage if worn over a survival suit.Have we forgotten anything? Good......... it's time to go home!

 

[emsworthy]

Of course things have moved on!!!!
You should now carefully fit your life jacket, adjust the crotch straps, fit the hood and safety line. Then attach the safety light and the LifeTag as well as the personal EPIRB. It is also good sense to carry some small flares and a laser torch. Some glucose tablets will come in useful and all of this will be to best advantage if worn over a survival suit.Have we forgotten anything? Good......... it's time to go home!

I think what Salt_Water_Gypsy is trying to say is "do what seems right to you and forget what others say, there will always be some sanctimonious old bugger that will tell you different!" FWIW your previous policy seems pretty spot on to me.

In the final analysis though, you're the skipper, it's your call.

BR

Tim

 

[Cornishman]

Lifejacket advice

Thank goodness the situation remains that it is your decision as skipper. If seeking advice from those who know then you can do no better than contact your local Sea Safety Group and ask for a visit from one of their volunteers who will talk you through all your kit and how and when it should be used. You will also find that modern gear has improved enormously over the last 5 years or so. As a former SEA (Safety Equipment Advice) checker until I got too old I can assure you that they are trained by the RNLI to the highest of standards. The visit costs you nothing, and they will not preach to you. And remember the RNLI saying about lifejackets - Useless until worn.