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■ A whistle and small waterproof torch will be useful if there is any likelihood ofgetting stuck on the water after nightfall. Be confident that a rescue party WILL besearching for you, because you told someone WHERE you were going and WHENyou would be back. If you are caught in fog or mist, a whistle will be the most usefulsignal for guiding a rescue boat. Remember the sound may not be audible upwindon a windy day.■ Finally, it’s always wise to wear a waterproof watch, so you can keep an eye on howlong you’ve been out on the water. Time can pass very quickly when you’re enjoyingyourself! However, if you’ve been out on the water for more than a couple of hours,the tidal conditions will have changed considerably back at the launch spot.Modern communications?■ Waterproof hand-held marine VHF radiosare becoming smaller and moreaffordable. They have a range of up to 5or 6 miles at sea level and can be used tocommunicate directly and quickly withthe Coast Guard, lifeboat and rescuehelicopter services as well as other crafton the water. The rescue services can alsouse them to pinpoint your position.Although they are easy to use, theserequire an operator’s certificate (a one-daycourse) and an annual licence. For moredetails contact the ISA.■ Some windsurfers carry theirmobile phone (protected by asuitable waterproof case) whenwindsurfing. Be aware that thesecan be unreliable because you maynot be within range of a mobilephone transmitter/receiver, so itmay be difficult to contact therescue services. They cannot beused to pinpoint your position.12
■ There are many small and low-priced handheld PMR‘walky-talkies’ now available with a range of up to 3miles, very useful for staying in communications withpeople onshore or other sailors. However, these won’thave the emergency/Coast Guard frequencies on, andare not generally used by other boat users.Before you goBeing a windsurfer means taking responsibility for your actions every time you go sailing.Match your knowledge to the conditions and never put your board or yourself at risk.If you stick to that policy, you will have a great time!■ Be realistic about yourlimitations when it comesto technique, equipmentand fitness. Make sureyou are sufficientlyexperienced to windsurfin strong winds or at anew location. Check thewind, sea state, tides andweather forecast. Consultother sailors and beprepared to postpone orabandon your plans.■ Leave details of your windsurfing plans with a reliable person on shore. This shouldinclude WHEN and WHERE you are launching, WHERE you are going, WHEN you expectto be back. Plus a DESCRIPTION of the board and rig. If you don't get back, it's nice toknow someone will raise the alarm.■ Always windsurf where there are other windsurfers on the water, or in an area patrolledby a rescue boat. It's a great idea to operate a 'buddy system' with two windsurfersminding each other.■ Don't forget to boost your windsurfing energy by snacking on fruit bars, dried fruit orbananas, and keep well hydrated. Drink plenty of water both before sailing and after!713
Page 1 and 2: SEA SAFETY GUIDELINES
Page 3: Before you startPreparation is the
Page 6 and 7: Master basic skillsBefore setting o
Page 8 and 9: Types of wetsuit■ The 'steamer' w
Page 10 and 11: Safety checkEquipment failure is on
Page 14 and 15: The launch spotBefore you launch fr
Page 16 and 17: ■ buildings and other obstruction
Page 18 and 19: On the beachIn cold conditionsWind
Page 21 and 22: Be careful■ Don't windsurf miles
Page 23 and 24: Watch outIt is your responsibility
Page 25: Power gives way to sailIn theory an
Page 28 and 29: Most older boards have a towing eye
Page 30 and 31: First aidHaving a first aid kit in
Page 32 and 33: Drink and drugs - don't do it!Alcoh
Page 34 and 35: Marine Safety Working GroupThe aim

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