Our last outfitting segment at least until we finalize any changes when we are actually on the boat. Some of the items mentioned below are redundant to early posts, but in a sense, ensuring the safety of an ocean going craft is based upon many systems working together.
In essence there are two groupings of safety equipment - dedicated special use and that equipment which helps ensure safe operation of the boat in all conditions. First the dedicated equipment:
Equipment List:
Life raft Avon modula valise Super, 4 person. IOF/ORC, Valise
Lee clothes - for starboard setee and aft cabin berths (3 pcs)
Fitting for lifebelts in cockpit (2)
Flares kit (USCG - 3 orange cans/3 red parachutes/handheld)
Medical kit
Lifesling
Horse Shoe throwable
Life Jackets/Tethers & Harnesses/Strobes
Extra Life Jackets
EPIRB
Jordon Series Drouge or Gailrider
Rapid Ditch Bag
Jack lines
Emergency water maker
Basically the equipment above breaks down into two categories 1) staying safe on the boat and 2) abandon ship emergency. Life jackets, jack lines, drogue, lee clothes, medical kit all fit in the first category making the boat safer while under way. In the second category, life raft, EPIRB, ditch bag, emergency water maker, allow for an ultimate survival situation where the boat must be abandoned. Most importantly the EPIRB - new 406 with GPS - allows for rapid and accurate location and identification. But lets be clear we never intend on using any of this stuff.
More important in vessel safety is staying out of trouble - this is where some of the previous communication, electronic and sailing equipment comes into play. VHF and SSB ensure ongoing communication support with a dedicated weather receiver to help avoid, route through bad weather. Radar and AIS will help with collision avoidance, either ships or land. Our sail inventory together with a strong sailing vessel will allow us to make progress in all but the worst conditions should we find ourselves in them.
