RNLI Safety Check

[Kantara]

A nice man from the RNLI has made an appointment to come and do a sea safety check on Sunday.
Does the panel have a recommendation as to the amount of donation that is appropriate to give to the RNLI (I am already an Offshore member)
All suggestions gratefully received
Chris

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[nicho]

Out of interest, how long did you have to wait - I booked one last Wednesday.

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[tome]

I charged him a fiver to come aboard, which seemed fair to both of us at the time.

Seriously, it's always worth talking through your safety gear and plans with a third party. In this instance I was a little disappointed that he didn't take me to task on a couple of obvious weaknesses. All the same, it was time well spent and I made sure he left with one of my free RSPB biros.

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[Nickel]

Speaking from a position of utter ignorance and inexperience [it's never stopped me before!] I would suggest about £25 for the visit; £50 if he saves your life [pointing out, say, some overlooked essential (that hole there in the hull? Yeah, that one with sea water bubbling up through it - no that's not supposed to be there - that's unsafe that is!)].

But then the wildlife living in my wallet has evolved to do without eyes!

<hr width=100% size=1>Nickel

Being paranoid simply means - having all the facts.

 

[Kantara]

I first raised this during a flare demo at the beginning of June. I got a letter a fortnight ago saying someone would contact me within a fortnight, and we fixed up a date for next Sunday - so, 6 weeks. However, I am in a relatively remote location and there may not be many experts around.
Chris

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[StugeronSteve]

>"However, I am in a relatively remote location and there may not be many experts around."<

I was once told that an "expert" is someone who has had to travel a long way to deliver his advice, it also mentioned a substantial fee being involved.

<hr width=100% size=1>Semper Bufo

 

[alahol2]

I have a friend who does these safety checks. All the 'checkers' are voluntary, usually have a fair amount of experience in the type of boat they check, and mostly do it because they enjoy helping others. They have all done a training course but I don't think any of them consider themselves experts.
The idea seems purely to pass on ideas and tips regarding safety, it is definitely not intended to be in any way judgemental. Feedback from those checked, generally, seems to be very favourable. No donation should be expected, but if you feel better giving one then I would guess a fiver is ample, or better still join Offshore.

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[john_morris_uk]

The RNLI do not charge - or intend to imply that a donation should be made - for the Sea Safety Check Scheme. One might argue that there is enough of a problem getting people to agree to have a free safety discussion wihout the thought of an obligatory 'donation' at the end. The service is FREE and the checkers are instructed to make this clear.

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[alpha]

John makes a good point, but would not put me off making a donation, purely out of respect and goodwill, in the circumstances. (I am an Offshore member, but still reckon that the odd extra cash donation is well received).

You might think that the 'donation' you are making is more along the lines of the money that the RNLI won't have to spend putting to sea to rescue you because you were ill-equipped or badly organised...?

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[StugeronSteve]

The "expert" story was just an anecdote that came to mind. As an Offshore supporter I am aware of he mechanics of the SEA CHECK and have every good intention of getting one arranged for my boat. Trouble is that I live so far away from the thing that whenever I can get down I want to go sailing.

<hr width=100% size=1>Semper Bufo

 

[DavidofMersea]

Well take him with you!!!

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[StugeronSteve]

Now that's an idea.

<hr width=100% size=1>Semper Bufo

 

[TheBoatman]

As a Sea Checker we are expressly forbiden to take any donation whilst doing the check. If you feel that you would like to offer something to the institution then please either send it to HQ or put something in the local LB box.
I give up my time for free because I believe in the RNLI and don't want you to pay for my time, well excepting a cuppa maybe<s>.
Peter.

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[Cornishman]

How about upgrading your membership to Governor?

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