| Whenever going out on the water, even if only for a | | | | Alternative Power - Spare outboard, oars or paddles |
| couple of hours, there are some things that are | | | | will help you maneuver the boat in the event of a |
| essential to have in case of emergency. Having | | | | power failure or if the wind dies away while sailing. |
| certain equipment on board could mean the | | | | Fire Extinguishers - If you have an engine or cooker |
| difference between a disaster and your returning to | | | | on board, always carry at least one. Make sure you |
| land safely. Unfortunately, statistics show that there | | | | know how to use it and see that it is serviced |
| are many deaths that occur due to boating accidents | | | | regularly. |
| that could have been prevented with the proper | | | | Boat Hook - As well as being used to pick up lines, |
| equipment. | | | | buoys and objects in the water, your boat hook can |
| Life Jackets and Buoyancy Aids - Wearing it is | | | | be used to check the depth of water, pushing off or |
| mandatory at all times. You must always carry one | | | | help in recovering a person overboard. |
| of the correct size for each person on board your | | | | Throwing Line - Have a floating line at least 12 |
| boat. | | | | meters in length with a floating weight at one end. |
| Bailing System - Even if you carry an electric bilge | | | | Torch - Always carry a torch with spare bulbs and |
| pump, you should always carry a bucket or bailer. It | | | | batteries. |
| can be used to put out fires and it may come in | | | | Protective Clothing - Carry adequate warm, |
| handy for other things. | | | | protective clothing for each person on board. |
| Anchor - To determine the right size for your boat, | | | | In all but very small boats you will need a chart. If |
| the anchor should weigh not less than 1.5 kg per | | | | you go more than a couple of miles from shore, you |
| meter of boat length, with the chain at least equal to | | | | will need a compass. A GPS and a depth sounder are |
| the length of the boat and a non-floating rope well | | | | worth considering. Exactly what you carry will depend |
| secured to the boat. | | | | on the size and type of boat and how far from land |
| First Aid Kit - This should contain enough supplies to | | | | you go. It is always a good idea to talk to the |
| cover minor accidents or injury. You should also carry | | | | Coastguard or the Maritime Safety Authority for |
| a remedy for sea sickness as well as sun block. | | | | advice. |