STAY AFLOAT

Flotation devices like lifejackets and buoyancy aids are a lifesaver – but they are useless unless worn. Your lifejacket will need basic maintenance to keep it working properly. The RNLI recommends you regularly inspect it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and in conjunction with an annual service. If in doubt, take the jacket to the manufacturer’s recommended service agent for checking and repacking.

Buoyancy aids are vital for watersports like dinghy sailing. Also wear clothing that will provide you with some extra buoyancy (such as a wetsuit or a dry suit). Remember, a buoyancy aid has integral foam buoyancy. But it is not designed to turn a person the right way up, so it would not support an unconscious person in the water.

Get more information on how to choose, use and maintain your flotation device.

STAY PUT

If you lose sail or engine power, an anchor can prevent you from drifting into dangerous areas. Holding your position can also make you easier to find if you need help; taking the ‘search’ out of ‘search and rescue’. Make sure you have an anchor suitable for your vessel, and enough chain and line for your area of activity. Practise using it, so that it’s second nature if you need to anchor in an emergency.

If you are using powered craft, a kill cord will stop the engine if you move away from the helm (of a motorboat) or if you fall out of the craft. This then stops the vessel injuring you or others – and will be more likely to stay within your reach. Always check that the kill cord works. Attach it to yourself, ideally around your leg, whenever the engine is running.