News
Accidental PLB Activation
Published Wed 25 May 2022
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Look after your PLB and it will look after you!
Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are an essential part of offshore racing. However, with the rough of tumble that is offshore sailing some PLB’s have been inadvertently activated. PLB manufacturers along with AMSA have put together some ways to avoid inadvertent activation of your PLB.
• Ensure the PLB is in good working order, not cracked, has not had water ingress or corrosion.
• Ensure the PLB is maintained and stowed correctly i.e., do not lean against it, do not lie in your bunk with it in your bum bag and potentially roll on it.
• Attach it to the outside of your lifejacket, being mindful of how your lifejacket inflates.
• Be aware of what other objects it is stowed with either in your pocket or bum bag, they may bump the on button or damage your PLB.
Your PLB is not just a requirement to suit the Special Regulations it is an important part of the kit to keep you safe and ensure you get home to your loved ones. So, treat it with respect, check on it throughout the race to see that it has not been damaged, ensure that you have not put it in a precarious position by lying on it or it’s squashed between you and a bulkhead.
More information on using your beacon including safe stowage, go to the AMSA website. Also ensure that you read the manufacturer of your PLB’s instruction for safe use and stowage.
An excellent article from Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) on monitoring VHF radio and inadvertent beacon activations can be read in their Autumn 2022 Boatwise newsletter here.