Antonio Sánchez

During navigation, problems may arise at sea that must be solved immediately.
Maritime Salvage is an emergency service for this type of situation.

What to do if we have problems navigating the high seas? What steps to follow?
Assess the scope and consequences of the problem
Check for nearby boats
Assess whether it is possible to solve it through your own means

Is there water on board?
Test the water
Fresh water means a leak in the drinking water tank (no serious problem)
Salty and hot water, comes from the engine cooling (look for the leak)
Salt and cold water, has a waterway. Quickly locate the origin that may be from the same vessel.

Where can the waterways come from?
Cover. Due to leaks or a poorly closed hatch. (not serious)
Hole in hull as a result of collision or stranding
Loss of sealing of bottom valves, stuffing boxes or through hulls below the waterline
Backflow of water through toilet or sink bowel movements

What to do if we have water in the bilge?
Start all bilge pumps immediately.
Do not turn off the engine, as electric pumps consume a lot of battery and can discharge it in minutes.
Designate one crewmember to pump with the hand pump and the rest to bail with the buckets.
To reinforce the work of the bilge pumps, release the engine cooling seawater intake, block or close the passage and make it suck in the shipped water.
Head for port immediately.

What to do if the waterway is found?
Emergency if the valve or a through hull fails close or fit a conical wooden spike to measure
If it is in the helmet, try to plug from the inside with clothing or cushions and keep the closure tight.
On sailboats, you can also try to decrease the inflow by using one of the sails (jib) from the outside, passed under the hull and tightening it from band to band.
If a valve or through hull fails, close or fit a custom wood conical spigot.
If the pathway is small, apply repair paste capable of acting (polymerizing) under water.

Prevention
Close unused valves
Do not allow leaks from the cover to the interior.
Ensure the tightness of portholes and hatches.
Set the anchor so that it does not hit the hull.
Securely attach batteries and all heavy equipment.
Never allow water in the bilge.
If you cannot stop the ingress of water, make a distress call.

While waiting for help, increase buoyancy by emptying the fresh water tank to the bare minimum and throwing useless weight overboard.
Prepare to leave the boat, but wait until the last minute.

A MIDDLE SINK VESSEL IS A BETTER PLACE TO WAIT FOR HELP THAN A RAFT, YOU SHOULD GO TO IT WHEN THE SINKING IS IMMINENT

Information from

MARITIME RESCUE

www.salvamentomaritimo.es

List of essentials to review before going to sea, don’t forget anything on board!
Weather forecast
Navigation and steering equipment (compass, log, rudder and radar)
Fuel for the trip and reservation
Communications equipment (VHF-LSD)
Nautical charts of the area
Propulsion equipment (oil, levels, cooling, horn, filters, spark plugs)
Watertightness and bilge systems (bottom valves, bilges, toilets, sinks, portholes, hatches)
Battery status (level, charge, corrosion, charger, connections)
Outlets status (watertightness, terminals)
Navigation lights (watertightness, bulbs, sockets)
Flashlights and spare batteries
Life jacket for each crew member (if applicable, size for children)
(check: whistle, strips, reflective tapes, boat name)
Safety harness
Status of safety equipment (rafts, flares, smoke signals, signal mirror, rings)
Fire protection system
Radar reflector, radio beacon (406 Mhz)
Drinking water (in tanks)
Navigation plan (deliver / communicate it to the Nautical Club)
Ship documentation
Anchors and ropes (stowage, corrosion, windlass brake)

CONVENIENT TO HAVE ON BOARD:
Alternative means of propulsion
Tools, spare parts
Thermal suits
First aid kit, anti-seasickness pills
Pocket knives, fishing tackle
Warm / waterproof clothing

Information from

MARITIME RESCUE

http://www.salvamentomaritimo.es

The “Regulation that regulates radiocommunications on board Spanish civilian ships” identifies the equipment that pleasure boats must carry, according to the navigation zones in which they are authorized to navigate. The equipment consists of fixed radio stations (in VHF and OM, with Digital Selective Calling – LSD), Inmarsat, portable VHF stations, NAVTEX terminals, radio beacons (RLS – EPIRB), radar transponders (RESAR – SART), and system satellite positioning system (GPS). The greater the distance from the coast that can be navigated, the more complete the equipment must be. Although a boat does not require certain equipment, it is always advisable to go beyond the regulations.
Remember that:
For your radio equipment, you must request the MMSI number () and the corresponding Ship Station License from the General Directorate of the Merchant Marine. The efficiency and speed of response of rescue facilities depend, to a great extent, on the correct transmission of a distress call. () Maritime Mobile Service Identification Number. (RLS- EPIRB)
It is necessary to know how to use the equipment and know the procedures.

THE GLOBAL MARINE SAFETY AND RELIEF SYSTEM (GMDSS)
The GMDSS issues automated distress calls that go directly to Rescue Coordination Centers and Coastal Radio Stations, thanks to the use of digital radio technology and satellite links.
Consult and comply with the GMDSS implementation deadlines in the recreational fleet, according to the authorized navigation areas for your vessel.

MAIN MEDIA USED BY GMDSS
LOSS LOCATION RADIO BEACON
The international satellite system COSPAS-SARSAT and GEOSAR (stationary) captures the emergency signals emitted by radio beacons. These are activated automatically, when submerging in water, or manually.
The radio beacons that emitted in 121.5 Mhz were decommissioned in 2009 and all already emit in the 406 Mhz frequency. The reason is that the 406 Mhz have more power and include a Unique identification code that personalizes the owner boat. The models equipped with GPS (or connected to the GPS of the boat by infrared), transmit the exact position of the emergency. A satellite of the constellation picks up the signal and forwards it to ground stations, activating the response.

THE GLOBAL MARINE SAFETY AND RELIEF SYSTEM (GMDSS)
SALVAMENTO MARÍTIMO RESPONDS TO ALL EMERGENCIES FROM A BEACON.
To make the beacon effective it is important to:
Register the radio beacon at the time of its acquisition, following the regulatory procedures so that the emergency signal incorporates the identification of the vessel.
The model must have flashing light and a signal (acoustic and / or light) that indicates its activation.
Place the radio beacon and its housing in a clear and protected place on the deck from where it can freely rise to the surface in the event of sinking (*). Never navigate with the radio beacon stored inside a “closet”.
Treat it with care and avoiding blows.
Scrupulously respect the inspection deadlines (battery and hydrostatic drain).
Check the battery status before setting sail.
Do not manipulate the radio beacon for no reason, to avoid accidental activation.
Do not try to recharge or replace the battery yourself: it must be done by an authorized technical service
If it is activated for no reason, urgently notify Maritime Rescue to deactivate the search operation.

(*) It is advisable to move the radio beacon away from radars, radio antennas or loudspeakers, as it may be activated unintentionally.

THE VHF
VHF radio is the standard radio communication system in the recreational fleet. Compared to other frequencies (OC and OM), its range is relatively short and depends on the propagation conditions in the atmosphere. As the waves travel in a straight line, any obstacle can stop them.

VHF CHANNEL 16 IS RESERVED FOR SAFETY AND DISTRESS CALLS. SHOULD NEVER BE USED TO CONVERSE.
In GMDSS, the VHF uses Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on Channel 70. It is an automated system for the transmission of distress calls that guarantees their reception by the maritime rescue services (if they are within the range of the Digital VHF – 40/50 miles) and by other nearby vessels and vessels.
The great advantage of calling for help with LSD is that all you have to do is press a button.

ALL CREW MEMBERS MUST BE ABLE TO USE VHF AND SELECTIVE DIGITAL CALLING (LSD).
RADAR RESPONDER (RESAR – SART)
Once activated, automatically or manually, it reacts upon receiving (being interrogated) a radar signal at 9 Ghz, responding with a sweep or burst signal to be located. The RESAR is very useful from a survival raft to guide, quickly and accurately, the rescue services to our position.

CELL PHONE?
Mobile telephony is not included in internationally regulated procedures, it is not a substitute for radio equipment and it should not replace VHF or LSD to make a distress call. The reasons are:
Neither coverage nor scope is reliable at all times and under all circumstances.
You can call to the mainland, but not communicate simultaneously with nearby boats that would give us quick help. Something that the VHF does, since it makes a general call received by all the stations within its reach, on board ships or on land, which keep listening on the distress channels and frequencies.
Even if you contact Salvamento Marítimo by phone, you must inform your exact position since it is not possible to know from what point you are calling. On the contrary, when receiving a distress call by radio, the marine rescue service can automatically obtain the geographical coordinates of the place where you are.
However, and despite its shortcomings, mobile telephony is an interesting complement for security.

Information from
MARITIME RESCUE
www.salvamentomaritimo.es

Before going sailing, any boat must confirm that it has all the mandatory safety equipment and material on it.

Depending on the navigation areas that the boat has authorized, the regulations require certain equipment and safety material to be carried on board.

These equipments are divided into the following categories:

Rescue
Navigation
Dewatering
Fire protection
Miscellaneous Armament
Dirty water spillage prevention

Located, signposted and accessible to any crew member, it makes it easier to save life in an emergency.

PYROTECHNICAL MATERIAL: FLARS, ROCKETS AND SMOKE CANISTERS

Store it on board in a dry place.
Put it out of the reach of children.
Read and memorize the instructions for use, since we may need it at night, in the middle of the storm and in the dark.
Scrupulously respect the expiration dates of the mandatory material.
Otherwise you can be sanctioned.
Complement the mandatory light signals by bringing mirrors, flash lamps (stroboscopic) and chemical lights on board.

LIFE JACKETS LOCATED AND QUICKLY ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL PEOPLE ON BOARD
Lifejacket

Have at least one vest for each crew member adapted to their size, weight and age. Minors must have a life jacket to suit them, preferably with straps passed over the legs (“tantrums”).
Keep the vests in perfect condition, with clean and greased buckles, pins and closures. If they get wet with sea water, wash them with fresh water and dry them before storing.

Inflatable lifejackets must be inspected annually at an authorized Service Station. The CE regulation distinguishes four types of vests, defined by their buoyancy expressed in Newtons (N).

50 N VEST
For calm waters and close to shore. They do not guarantee that the face remains in the air at all times. They are used for sports activities, such as kayaking, jet skis or windsurfing, and are not included in the regulations of the Ministry of Public Works for use in recreational boating (Ministry of Public Works Order 1144/2003).

100 N VEST
To await an upcoming rescue, floating on calm waters.

150 N VEST
To withstand bad weather in the open sea.

275 N VEST
For extreme situations in the open sea and wearing plenty of warm clothing.
(10 Newtons = 1 Kgr of buoyant thrust)

There are many models of life jackets on the market, but all of them must have CE or SOLAS approval. All vests must have
reflective bands for a better location.

SELF-INFLATING VESTS ARE MORE COMFORTABLE BY EASIER MOVING ON BOARD. THE 150N OFFERS GREATER VERSATILITY
Vests with built-in harness (Recommended). Very practical and safe on sailing boats.
Life jackets with personal beacon (Recommended). For man overboard accidents! They are equipped with an automatic alarm and locator. In the water, they emit a signal that is captured on the bridge, helping to locate the castaway by radio direction finding.

FIGHT AGAINST FIRE
Portable fire extinguishers must always be within reach and checked, in due time and form, by authorized and approved companies. All the crew have to know their exact location and know how to use them.

In addition to the mandatory buckets for water, it is convenient to have a fire blanket with which to smother small fires.

Remember that there are five types of fire extinguishers (A, B, C, D, F) for different types of fires and that those of electrical origin are usually the most common on board.

LIFE RINGS
Lifebuoys
Lifebuoys or rings are safety elements in the case of Man overboard!
To be useful, they must be placed on the risers (fins) or aft, with light (optional floating anchor) and a quick release system and launched into the water.

The name of the boat must appear on the lifebuoy.

Also, for greater visibility, equip yourself with an IOR (International Offshore Rule) telescopic floating hanger.

IF YOU LOSE A LIFE RING, REPORT TO MARITIME SALVATION. SOMEONE CAN FIND IT AND ACTIVATE AN ALARM
For lone sailors it is advisable to tow a 50 meter line aft, topped with a visible float and with knots every five or ten meters.

However, keep in mind that, while sailing at a certain speed, even if you manage to hold on, it may not withstand the pressure of the water if the boat does not stop immediately.

Emergency boat and raft
COLLECTIVE LIFE RAISES
In order for them to fulfill their function correctly, it is important to choose the place for their installation on the roof and to comply with the deadlines for the revisions.

The entire crew must know how to unbolt and launch a raft into the sea.

OTHER SAFETY AND RESCUE ELEMENTS:
SECURITY RNÉS

It is a personal equipment adapted to the size of each crew member.

Although it may seem uncomfortable at first, the harness is important for getting around the deck in bad weather – use webbing harness instead of rope.

This prevents that, when stepping on the harness, it rolls and makes us slip.

The most complete harness is preferable, fixed to the body under the arms and between the legs.

The harness mooring line (maximum recommended length of two meters) must be finished off with two arms and two fixing carabiners.

THE SAFETY HARNESS IS NOT TO BE HELD ATTACHED TO THE BOAT IF IT FALLS OVER THE SIDE. IT IS TO NOT FALL INTO WATER. THERE IS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE HARNESS BEING SHORT LENGTH.

Safety harness to avoid falling into the water

Most harnesses are attached to the lanyard at the chest to unhook it yourself.

But if he falls into the water and is towed from the chest there is a risk of drowning.

It is preferable to fix it from the back.

Install the “lifeline” (in steel or nylon and always flat so as not to slip when stepping on it) from the bow to the cockpit, with additional fixing rings at the bottom of the cockpit and at the foot of the mast (sailing boats).

Always keep the “life line” taut.

SURVIVAL SUITS

Important for long crossings and in cold water, survival suits are difficult to put on and require training.

It is convenient to practice before boarding, until the suit can be lined up in a minute. ON BOARD KIT It is convenient to carry a first aid kit on board.

OTHER RECOMMENDED MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT

Emergency items, Goggles, survival backpack, medical kit Goggles, tube and fins, in case you have to dive to release a line attached to the propeller or the rudder.

Have a sharp knife to cut ends.

Portable bilge pumps, in addition to the regulatory ones (with a waterway, there are never enough pumps).

Have a survival backpack ready to transport, inside a watertight drawer: the radio beacon, a portable VHF equipment, pocket knife, energy food, waterproof flashlight (batteries), cords and ropes of different sizes and lengths, garbage bags of various sizes, flares and rockets, first aid kit, drinking water, a strobe flashlight and a change of dry and warm clothes. Install a radar reflector in the highest area of your boat.

Information source: Maritime Salvage