There’s a fair chance that at some time in our sailing careers we will drive or be involved with a power boat and need to be aware of the safety responsibilities that come with that.

Power boats are a necessary support tool for our sport, providing safety support, staring races, moving marks and at times required as high-speed transport back to shore in case of injury or emergency. As with all boats, safety needs to be at the forefront of the person in charge’s mind.

Some safety tips to remember when you’re out on a power boat and assisting race management:
•    Know where the safety equipment is kept on board
•    Do a safety briefing if you have another person on board
•    Wear your lifejacket 
•    Have the kill cord attached to you when underway 
•    Know how to tow another boat, particularly the class that is racing
•    Have the knowledge to rescue a boat in distress

Australian Sailing has a powerboating program where you can learn basic power boat handling skills right up to assisting to retrieve the different styles of race craft on the water.

For more information on the power boat program click here
To find a power boat course click here 

By Melanie Peasey