Laguna Yachts Windrose Owner's Manual - page 4
N. Mother Nature can be very strong
and even the largest of ships can
encounter overpowering winds and
seas. Observe safety regulations and
practices, you cannot "play it" too
safe.
Section 4.
SAFETYEQUIPMENT
A. P.F.D.
Personal Flotation Devices (P.F.D.'s)
are required for each person onboard
and at least one throwable flotation
device. All must be Coast Guard ap-
proved.
B. Fire Extinguishers:
At least one U.S. Coast Guard ap-
proved B-1 type must be onboard.
Mount it where it can be easily and
quickly located by any person on
board, preferably within reach of the
cockpit. When you need it, you need
it now, not after the time it takes to
dig through several storage hatches.
DO NOT mount it immediately next to
your stove.
C. Horn:
One hand, mouth or power operated
whistle or horn audible for at least
one half mile must be onboard.
Again, mount it where you can reach
it immediately. Situations requiring
it's use usually will not wait while you
or your crew rummage about.
D. Flashlight:
A good item to have when the sun
sets is a flashlight that will throw a
long beam. Spare batteries are a
good idea. The flashlight should be
mounted where it can be reached in
the dark without having to have light
to find it.
E. Electrical Running Lights:
Keep the battery charged and in good
condition even if you don't plan on
being out after dark. A properly
operating system is good insurance.
F. Anchors:
Every boat should have an anchor
onboard. An eight to thirteen pound
"Danforth" type anchor should be
adequate for any condition you are
likely to encounter. Attached to the
anchor should be
114"
or heavier
guage chain. The length of the chain
should be equal to the length of your
boat. Then, attached to the chain
should be one-hundred fifty to three
hundred feet of
=ta"
or heavier Nylon
line, depending upon the depth of the
water, the size of swells, wind veloc-
ity, and changes in tidal levels. You
should ask knowledgeable people in
your area about anchoring proce-
dures relative to the place you plan to
visit. Be sure to inquire of more than
one experienced person and always
use extra caution in assembling the
anchor, chain and line. Don't forget to
wire all shackle pins so they cannot
come loose underwater.
G. Distress Signals:
Small boat distress signal kits are
available. They generally have a flag,
flares and dye. They work and are
advisable for attracting attention if
you ever need assistance.
H. Bilge Pumps:
Under normal conditions you should
never need a bilge pump. If it is ever
needed, there is no good substitute.
A hand operated pump is inexpen-
sive and recommended. If you will be
leaving your boat in the water unat-
tended, an automatic bilge pump is
recommended. It's low-cost insur-
ance against vandals leaving hatches
open, being holed from a boat out of
control or storm damage.
We suggest you review your safety
equipment needs carefully with an ex-
perienced person. Week-end sailing on
familiar waters may not require as much
as sailing in open seas or large water
areas such as the Great Lakes. There
are many different types of equipment
available from a compass to electronics.
Your dealer should be able to assist you.
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