DCA - Safety Recommendations

The
Dinghy
Cruising
Association

Safety Recommendations

These recommendations have been arrived at over a number of years and have been periodically discussed by the membership. Opinions vary and technology advances. These are therefore intended to be a guide rather than definitive practice and should be adopted by the cruising sailor only after careful consideration of their own craft, sailing area, climate, etc.

Decisions on safety for any small boat sailor are the responsibility of the individual.

The boat should carry sufficient crew - one stone (14lbs) for each foot of waterline length (20kg/metre) is suggested as a minimum.
The boat should be stable enough to allow the recommended weight of crew to sit on the gunwale without dipping it under or the craft capsizing. A fairly beamy hull is advised.
The boat should carry sufficient positive buoyancy to support itself together with stores and partially immersed crew, plus a reserve of not less than 112lbs (50kg). This buoyancy should be so disposed that it is possible for the crew to put the boat back into sailing condition after capsizing or swamping. Testing one's boat in sheltered conditions is strongly advised. It should be stressed that capsizing is not an acceptable proposition in a seaway due to the long period of exposure that may ensue and the possible loss of stores and equipment. In rough seas, recovery can become impossible. Consideration should be given to the problem of getting back into the boat. A simple rope strop helps.
The vessel should have at least a foredeck.
Mast, rigging, fittings etc., must be strong enough to withstand capsizing forces. It is recommended that if the rigging is stainless steel, it be replaced at regular intervals as it can fatigue without warning. Ten years is a reasonable guide for a well used boat.
The mainsail should be capable of being reefed whilst at sea and the possession of a storm jib is desireable on sloops.
The following equipment should be carried aboard:
- Lifejackets for each member of the crew and one spare if possible
- Waterproofs and plenty of warm clothing for each crew member.
- An anchor (if of 'fisherman' type 1lb for each foot of overall length is a good guide, metric equivalent 1.5 kgs per metre. Patent types,'CQR' or 'Danforth' for example, can be two thirds of this). The anchor warp, length 30 metres upwards, should be of non-floating material and have 2-3 metres of chain between it and the anchor. 8mm is a good average warp size. The bitter (inner) end should be tied to a strongpoint inside the boat.
- A strong bucket and a bailer with lanyards. A good bilge pump and/or another bailer may be considered.
- Two metal rowlocks, secured to the vessel by lanyards, two oars and one spare rowlock. Paddles are not considered a satisfactory substitute.
- Drinking water more than sufficient for the cruise. At least three pints (1.5L) per person per day.
- A reliable steering compass. If possible it should be kept in one position where it should be checked for deviation.
- A fire blanket and/or fire extinguisher, depending on equipment carried.
The following equipment, additional to the items above, is advised where the cruise is more extended than just day sailing:
- Navigation equipment such as charts, pilot books, tidal atlas and a means of plotting a course; a simple lead line marked in metres can also be considered.
- Spare compass, need only be of pocket type.
- Portable radio capable of receiving shipping weather forecasts.
- Pyrotechnic distress signals. VHF radio should also be considered. All in waterproof packs.
- First-aid kit and instructions.
- A powerful light to conform to DTI collision regulations and at least one spare electric torch.
- A loud horn, bell, whistle or other means of giving audible warning in thick weather.
- Repair kit and spare parts to choice.
Before a trip, however short, let someone responsible know where you are going and by what time you expect to return or phone in. It is recommended that you register the description of your boat with the coastguard on Form CG6, a free service.