RNLI urges boaters to ‘boost your skills’ with new checklists and action plan

In 2024, RNLI lifeboats launched 1,900 times to powered boat users and sailors, aiding 1,447 people and saving 42 lives.

The lifesaving charity has now partnered with the other agencies to create checklists boat owners can use as they prepare for the start of the season, following research conducted by the RNLI.

The checklists can be downloaded for free from the RNLI website.

Sarah Pennicard, of the RNLI Water Safety Team, said: ‘We always want people to enjoy our coastline, but things can quickly go wrong at sea, which is why it’s so important to be prepared.

‘We are thrilled to be working with HM Coastguard, the RYA and Irish Sailing to find exciting alternative ways to deliver vital safety advice.

‘By keeping our essential checklists onboard, you’ll be reducing the risks of incidents occurring or increasing in severity.’

The assets created by the RNLI, HM Coastguard, the RYA and Irish Sailing provide boaters with a list of things to check before going afloat.

These include checking the weather forecast and tide times, checking onboard safety equipment and making sure the crew are wearing appropriate clothing for the conditions.

A crew briefing card is included, which encourages people to discuss the passage plan and expected weather, check for any medical conditions amongst the crew and check lifejackets are fitted correctly.

Boaters will also find a checklist for when they are underway, as well as an emergency action plan should things go wrong, and an emergency VHF radio calling procedure.

HM Coastguard and the RYA have supported the campaign in the UK, while Irish Sailing have helped the delivery in the Republic of Ireland.

Derrick Jones, Assistant Chief Coastguard for HM Coastguard, said: ‘Through this important campaign, we’re pleased to work alongside partners from the RNLI, RYA and Irish Sailing to raise awareness of the risks involved in recreational boating.

‘We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the water, but it’s essential that all levels of boater, from beginner to experienced, are properly equipped to handle emergency situations that can occur on the water at any time of year, and in any conditions.

‘From the effective use of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) to lifejackets, essential checklists and crew drills such as man overboard procedures, we want to highlight that safety should be the first consideration before taking to the water this season.’

Richard Falk, RYA Director of Training, said: ‘We’re delighted to join forces with the RNLI, HM Coastguard and Irish Sailing through this campaign. No matter how long you’ve been boating, an element of planning is required for even the simplest and shortest of journeys. The start of the season is also a great time to refresh your knowledge and expand your skills with an RYA training course whether on shore or on the water.’

Irish Sailing Training Manager, Dave Garvey, said: ‘Safe boating leads to an enjoyable time afloat for everyone. Training, practice and good preparation are all essential elements of boating safety.

‘Carrying the new RNLI essential checklists on board will ensure steps are not missed in the preparation to help keep you out of trouble and offer great support should mishaps arise.’

To download the checklists and for more information visit: RNLI.org/boostskills

Notes to editors

· The assets can be downloaded here.

· High-res images can be downloaded here.

· Interviews with Sarah Pennicard are available on request.

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Ben Williets, RNLI Press Officer on 01202 641450 or contact the RNLI Press Office on [email protected] or 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.