Read your Safety Management System

1. Prepare your vessel
   • Have a maintenance plan
   • Is the tender in good condition?
   • Does it need any repairs?
2. Before you go
   • TELL SOMEONE where you are going and when you will return
   • Check weather forecast
   • Bilges are clean and dry
   • Is everything secure?
   • Do you have enough food and water?
   • Do you have sufficient fuel for the trip?
   • Are all batteries charged?
3. Check your safety equipment:
   • Lifejacket
   • Bailing system including bilge pump
   • Communication equipment (VHF, satellite phone etc.)
   • EPIRB or PLB
   • Flares – red distress and orange smoke
   • Anchor and enough rope/chain
   • GPS/compass
   • Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponder
   • Secondary means of propulsion
   • Waterproof torch
   • First aid kit
   • Appropriate clothing and PPE (hat, sunglasses, gloves, sunscreen etc.)
4. When at sea:
   • Wear your lifejacket
   • Keep a good lookout
   • Check your weight. What is the maximum loading of the dory?
   • Know the radio channel you are working on
   • Know where you are at all times
   • Check for navigational hazards
   • Monitor fuel use