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Forth Yacht Clubs Association
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The forum for Clubs on both sides of the Firth

Safety in Small Boats

Forth Yacht Clubs Association co-ordinates the activities and represents the interests of Yacht Clubs in the Firth of Forth.

The Association is currently very concerned over the safety of those who go to sea in small craft in the Forth. In 2008 there was a tragic incident during a yacht race at Port Edgar when a crew member fell overboard and subsequently died from drowning. Also in 2008 a boat fishing off Methil sank and one of the crew also drowned. In both these incidents, lifejackets were not being worn and this may have contributed to the tragic loss of life.

In October2008, a small speedboat sank off Wemyss but, on this occasion, one of the crew managed to swim to the shore to raise the alarm. All of the crew were allegedly wearing buoyancy aids which no doubt contributed towards their survival.

All these incidents have highlighted the importance of three vital pieces of marine safety equipment, namely, lifejackets, VHF radios (either fixed or handportable) and flares. These three items ensure that, firstly, attention can be drawn to any life-threatening incident and secondly, survivors can be kept afloat until help arrives.

Whilst our Association only represents the Yacht Clubs in the Forth, we feel that, with our experience, we can give some advise to all those who participate in any form of small boat activity.

We all enjoy being on the water but, by the same token, we all face the same hazards. The Sea is not to be trifled with, she can be a dangerous mistress but by taking wise precautions, we can all enjoy our boating.

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