Cobalt_OM_preprint_shell.fm Page 1 Wednesday, March 1, 2006 5:39 AM
46 Owner’s Manual
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11
R
ESPONSIBILITIES
AND
S
AFETY
Audible/Visual Distress Signals
A distress call is transmitted on VHF/FM radio
channel 16 (156.800 MHz) or 2182 kHz (SSB).
Know your audible signals:
• For emergency, the call sign is “Mayday.”
• For an urgent situation, the call sign is
“Pan-Pan.”
• For navigational safety and weather warnings,
the call sign is “Security.”
Repeat the call sign three times. Immediately react
to a distress call. Assist, if possible, using an
emergency frequency. Otherwise, continue to
monitor the situation until help has arrived.
If you are required to carry distress signals, you
must have three USCG-approved pyrotechnic
devices. Be sure they are in serviceable condition,
not exceeding the expiration date and stored in a
cool, dry location in a waterproof container.
Sea Anchors
You should have a separate sea anchor onboard to
slow drifting. In heavy seas, a sea anchor is set
from the bow to control the behavior of the yacht.
The sea anchor holds the bow to the sea and a
slow drift.
Life Raft
If operating offshore, you should consider carrying
an inflatable life raft, if not originally equipped. A
USCG approved life raft meets a number of
stringent specifications. The life raft must be large
enough to hold all the occupants of the yacht and
have its own equipment pack including a paddle.
A life raft can be stored in the aft storage area or in
any other accommodating place on your yacht.
SAFETY
The popularity of boating and other water sports
has undergone an immense growth over the past
few years. Because of this, safety is an important
issue for everyone who shares in the use of our
waterways. Be smart when boating and using your
equipment.
In emergency situations, it may be necessary to
resort to measures which are not commonly
practiced. Always assess the dangers of being in
harm’s way versus the protection of equipment.
Keep a sound mind during an emergency and
always think safety.
• Know the conditions of your boat and the
environment.
• Have a float plan and inform others when you
will return.
• Secure or store loose items before getting
underway.
• Avoid sudden maneuvers at high speed and
reduce speed in waves.
RED DISTRESS FLARE
(HAND)
SIGNAL (HAND)
USE DAY AND NIGHT
O
S
S
VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS
USE DAY AND NIGHT
USE NIGHT ONLY
DYE MARKER
USE DAY ONLY
ARMS SIGNALS
(USE BRIGHT CLOTH)
COB_0031_A
USE
DAY
ONLY
ELECTRIC
DISTRESS
LIGHT
RED METEOR FLARE
USE DAY ONLY
USE DAY ONLY
A
WARNING
Avoid fire, explosion, injury or property
damage from improperly handled
pyrotechnic signaling devices. Follow
the manufacturer’s directions.
