1.
Do not venture out when the weather conditions are unfavorable, or are predicted to become so.
Listen to weather forecasts; check with your harbor patrol office; look out for small craft storm
warnings.
2.
Be especially careful in areas where there may be commercial shipping traffic. Keep well away
from shipping channels. Keep a sharp look-out when crossing the shipping channels.
3.
Learn the rules of the road. All other sailors will expect that you know them and abide by them.
The U.S. Coast Guard (BBE-2) 400 S. Eleventh Street S.W., Washington, D.C. 20590 will supply
free literature on this. Your local branch or Harbor Patrol office may have it available.
4.
If your boat has a Genoa sail which obscures the helmsman's vision, have a dependable person
in the crew keep a sharp look-out under the jib sail for oncoming traffic.
5.
When sailing at night, provide safety harnesses for yourself and your crew, and tie these lines to
the boat. Use approved harnesses.
6.
Purchase all Coast Guard required safety equipment, and learn how to use it.
7.
Enroll in a C.G. Class or other certified boating and sailing class. You will learn a lot and enjoy
sailing even more.
8.
Do not take more than a safe number of persons aboard your boat when sailing.
9.
Marine insurance is worth every penny you pay for it. Take out insurance from the start. See your
dealer for a recommended marine agent, if you do not have one.
10.
Keep all seat hatches and main hatch closed during rough weather or gusty winds which could
unexpectedly strike the boat and cause a knockdown.
11.
CAUTION! The aluminum mast the metal parts conduct electricity. Coming in contact with or
approaching an electrical power line can be fatal. Stay away from overhead power lines and
wires of any kind when launching, underway or stationary.
6.2 Required Safety Equipment
Fire Extinguisher(s)
It is wise to locate an approved marine use, fire extinguisher, in a convenient, accessible location.
Dry chemical extinguishers should be inverted occasionally to prevent the contents from packing.
Extinguishers should be recharged yearly or after each use, according to manufacturer's
recommendations
Life Vests
Keep a Coast Guard approved life vest on board for each crew member. Wear them during rough
weather and night sailing. Children should wear vests at all times, no matter how much they object.
Horn
Your yacht should be equipped with a horn capable of producing a blast that can be heard for a
distance of one mile.
Flares
The law requires that your yacht be equipped with a minimum of three (3) day/night flares.
6.3 Suggested Safety Equipment And Safety Package
Medical Kit
A basic medical kit is a wise investment for any boat owner. Suggested items include: motion sickness
pills, aspirin, bandages, etc. We recommend that you personalize your medical supplies for yourself and
your crew members' specific needs. First aid kits are available at most marine stores. Consult your
physician for his recommendations, if you are planning a voyage away from medical facilities. A first aid
Page 33 of 35
Catalina 22 Owner's Manual for 1987
7/21/2010
http://www.catalina22.org/manuals/mnl87/handbook.htm