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Safety First

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OUR CLUB ETHOS

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LAUNCH SAFELY

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STAY SEAWORTHY

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TELL US IF IT'S BROKEN

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MIND THE WINCHES

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LaUNCHING

Launching presents one of the biggest challenges for our club

  • Wind and tide can make for interesting conditions

  •  Different people have different skills and comfort levels

  • Don’t feel pressured to launch

  • Get help to launch if you need it

  • Above all – DON’T get between the boat and the beach!

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STAYING SEAWORTHY

As boat owners, we have a responsibility to ensure our boats are seaworthy

  • There is lots of expertise in the club! Don't feel shy, just ask! 

  • They also need to be “landworthy” : they are kept on accessible land, and we want to maintain a healthy relationship with the seafront office

  • All private boats must have 3rd Party Liability insurance cover continually.​

DEFECTS & SAFETY REPORTS

  • Please tell us if you see something that is broken or doesn’t look right.

  • We have a form available and QR codes around the club to make it simple.

  • Reports are treated confidentially.

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USING THE WINCHES

  • We have three electric winches

    • 1 for rescue boat​

    • 2 for the catamarans and monohulls

  • Keep fingers well away from the mechanisms

  • Concentrate only on that job - don’t get drawn into a conversation at the same time

  • Get someone else to “spot” for you if a boat is ready to be pulled up

  • Get someone to show you if you’re not sure how to use them

Beach Safety

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RESCUE BOAT

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COMMS

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GOING ALONE

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WEATHER & KIT

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IF IN DOUBT

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GOING OUT
ALONE
BOAT OWNERS

  • Owners of boats are within their rights to go afloat alone

  • This presents a much higher level of risk

  • Ensure someone else knows you are out and knows your ETA

  • WhatsApp group can be a great way to find a friend to go out with!

  • Ensure that your boat is seaworthy

  • Take a paddle

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GOING OUT
eVERYONE

Everyone  

  • Everyone must sign out by writing your name, sail number and phone number on the whiteboard in the race hut. When you return, cross yourself out. 

  • Pool boat users must Sign and date the sign-up sheet. It hangs on a clip board in the hut on the beach. The Pool Boat Manager MUST countersign.

  • In addition to the above, ensure someone else knows you are out

  • Take waterproof means of communication (you can put your phone in a water tight phone pouch)

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KEEP A WEATEHR EYE ON THE HORIZON

  • Ensure that you have the right kit for the conditions

  • You can always take off a layer

  • Cold water shock can be a risk in UK Water at any time of year

  • Tidal streams can be a challenge, especially on light wind days

  • OOD has the right to abandon racing, but no pressure to participate if you are not comfortable

  • Take a good look at the forecast if going alone

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IF IN DOUBT

  • Sailing is an adventurous sport and will always have some level of risk.

  • Members use the club facilities and equipment at their risk.

  • We have to keep our members and the public safe

  • We are a friendly club with lots of expertise and other members happy to help.

DON'T GO OUT

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