Why do UK Raggies Always Fall Overboard?

[TwoStroke]

Because you all tend to like your drink. /forums/images/icons/wink.gif

Every time I've gone out sailing, as soon as the harbour is left the tinnies seem to materialise from no where. Which is why you all tend to wear the gear because you know there's a good chance of going over.

I'm going to duck for cover now! /forums/images/icons/wink.gif /forums/images/icons/wink.gif

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<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1>Edited by TwoStroke on 24/02/2004 12:11 (server time).</FONT></P>

 

[MainlySteam]

Perhaps that is where the colloquialism "He's fallen in the drink" comes from /forums/images/icons/smile.gif?

John

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[TwoStroke]

Hadn't thought of that - does ring true though!

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[Peppermint]

Re: Lifejackets

The strange practise that I've developed is that when we start off everyone is wearing one. As we progress people can ask not to wear it. I'll think about it.

I developed this system because.

Leaving harbour, line handling, sail hoisting, etc. is fraught with swimming opportunity.

You often find a bit more up and down when you stick your nose out of harbour. When I've seen crews scuttling below to get lifejackets it's already a bit lively and you don't always get them all back. The green ones stay below and if we need a quick reef or a trip forward I want em working not looking for kit.

The truest quote I ever saw on this subject goes something like..

Prosecutor "Did you have lifejackets onboard?"
Skipper "Yes M'lud"
Prosecutor "So everybody was wearing them then?"
Skipper "No. Because...."
Prosecutor "Just answer the question yes or no please."

..and all of this in front of a non-sailing jury.

In this day and age in this country you would not be looking at a happy outcome.

As a matter of interest I get no dissent from crewmembers.

10 years ago I wouldn't have bothered but modern lifejackets are not a burden and modern crews want to live for ever.


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