RYA and RNLI call for safety afloat in new videos

The RYA and Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have joined forces to produce a new series of ‘How to’ videos with advice and tips on how to safely enjoy being on the water.

The RNLI were called out more than 13,000 times to boaters between 2017 to 2019 and the first video - released today (25 September) - reveals the top five reasons lifeboat crews were called into action along with tips on how to avoid the need to call for help.

They include human error, sinking, running aground and equipment failure. But the top reason for an emergency call out in the last two years involving a boat was machinery failure, with more than 4,000 incidents.  

Stuart Carruthers, RYA Cruising Manager, said: "Following lockdown the water has been re-established as a fantastic place to exercise, relax and re-charge in the great outdoors. However, it is important to remember the seriousness of safety when going afloat, especially if you have not been on the water for some time or are using new equipment for the first time.

"We hope that viewers will takeaway from the videos the significance of planning for different eventualities,thinking ahead, getting properly trained and always having a method of keepingin touch and if it comes to it, calling for help when out on the water."

Samantha Hughes, RNLI Water SafetyPartner, said: "We want everyone to enjoy their time on the water whilststaying safe. By highlighting the common call outs our volunteer lifeboat crewsattend as well giving some top tips we hope it will get viewers thinking aboutwhat they could do to maximise their time out on the water.

"Before you head out on the watermake sure you are prepared and have checked the weather conditions, wear alifejacket and make sure you have a means of calling for help should you needit."

The short series of videos will also cover topics such as electronic navigation, rules of the road, the shipping forecast and best practice when riding a Personal Watercraft (PWC). 

The videos will be available to watch on both the RYA and RNLI’s social media pages and websites.

For further information on safety at sea or how to start boating, please visit rya.org.uk. Alternatively, if you are a RYA Member and require further assistance, please email: cruising@rya.org.uk