SVN solovelanet

54 SVN Solovelanet Global Compared to the previous case, many benefits are the same, except for the fact that in order to toss the raft overboard manually, it is necessary to go beyond the protection of the lifelines and this, especially with rough seas, might expose people to a high risk. In certain circumstances, access might even be impossible. . Stowage space provided by the builder In recent years, more and more boat builders have been offering specific liferaft housing solu- tions, and in the vast majority of cases these are dedicated spaces created far aft.Some of these solutions are excellent, and others not so much. For this reason, we should not assume them to be good just because they are supplied by the builder. Only by bearing our security plan in mind will we be able to decide whether to use that space in the suggested way or not. . In a locker Due to lack of space on deck, or because we prefer to store the raft where it stays protected against thieves and elements, sometimes our choice falls on a cockpit locker.This solution is very often found on boats supplied by charter companies. For this solution to be compatible with a correct safety plan, it is necessary to comply with some directions: . The locker must only accommodate the liferaft and the necessities needed for abandoning ship. . The liferaft must be the soft valise type, be- cause its handles have been designed for this purpose and allow for use even by just one per- son.On the contrary a rigid container, besides being heavier, has only lateral straps, and some- times not even those. . The flares, the grab bag and other useful emergency items should be gathered in the same space.In this way we will avoid both having to re- member the equipment list, and looking for items in the cabinets below deck.Everything will be re- ady to be brought with us. . Let's remember to install an eyebolt inside the locker where to fasten the painter line. Let's avoid burying the raft under ropes, fenders or other items.Otherwise, how long would it take to get the raft out? 1. Begin to accept the idea that one day you might really need the liferaft.When we can imagine being involved in an emergency situation where it is ne- cessary to launch the liferaft, we will understand the importance of having stowed in correctly. 2. Always assume that you will have to launch the liferaft very quickly.Having a plan and being able to follow it is crucial, but it is all too likely that you will need to abandon ship quickly without thinking about anything else. 3. Assume that the liferaft has to be launched by the weakest person on board.You cannot guarantee that the fittest member of your crew is able to launch the raft. For this reason, if you have not placed the life - raft so that it can be launched even by the weakest person on board, then you are in trouble! 4. If you stow the liferaft on deck, make sure it is always fastened securely.Always check that the mounts are well secured to the deck, that the raft is always firmly tied and that the straps are not dama - ged.Otherwise you risk losing the raft or injuring a person on board. 5. If the raft is stored on a high coachroof (e.g. that of Moody deck-saloon models), always have a plan to bring it on deck.Before finding yourself in a storm, and having to handle such a heavy object placed high while the boat is moving wildly, it is good prac - tice to plan to move the raft on deck in advance and fasten it properly. 6. Always be sure that the liferaft can be taken out of a locker.Valise rafts may expand or change shape over the course of the season, so never assume that if it has come out before, it can easily do it again. You certainly would not want to find out otherwise when you need it during an emergency! 7. Consider where to stow the grab bag too.As for the raft, we should be sure that our grab bag is ea- sily accessible in all circumstances. 8. Plan, plan and plan againSafety can only be granted if it is planned in advance through security checks and briefings carried out together with your crew, so that everyone knows what to expect and how to behave in an emergency. The eight rules for the liferaft

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