Module 20 - Special Situations Afloat
Abandon Ship and Liferaft Use
The usual rule is to step up into the liferaft: abandon only when the vessel is more dangerous than the raft. A damaged yacht is easier for rescuers to see than a liferaft and usually carries more water, shelter, power, and signalling equipment.
Prepare early. Send distress, activate EPIRB if appropriate, put on lifejackets and warm clothing, collect grab bag, water, flares, handheld VHF, PLB if carried, medication, and the log/position details. Launch the liferaft to leeward if possible, keep it attached until ready, and board in an orderly way.
- Abandon only when the vessel is more dangerous than the liferaft
- Send distress and activate appropriate beacons
- Take grab bag, water, VHF, flares, medication, and position information
- Board in an orderly way
- Stay attached until ready to leave the vessel
Continue studying Special Situations Afloat
This public lesson is part of Revision Module 20. Full revision access adds the guided Learn, Practise and Test flow, flashcards and revision progress.