EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
16
TOWING
WARNING!
PERSONAL INJURY HAZARD – Towing or being towed stresses the boats, hardware and lines.
Failure of any part can seriously injure people or damage the boats.
A recreational boat towing another is usually a last resort because of possible damage to one or
both boats. Private salvage companies are Berger equipped. A recreational boat may assist by
standing by, and possibly keeping the disabled boat´s bow at a proper angle until help arrives.
Only when conditions are ideal – that is seas are calm, disabled boat is small, and one or both
skippers know correct technique – should a recreational boat tow another.
Be sure you boat will not run aground too.
Because you are manoeuvrable and the grounded boat is not, you should pass the towline
to the grounded boat.
Use double-braided or braid-on-braid line. Never use three-strand twisted nylon, it has too
much elasticity and can snap back dangerously.
Vessel Being Towed
Fasten the towline as far forward as possible on the windward or upcurrent side of the
towing boat. Attaching on the stern lowers manoeuvrability of the towing vessel.
If possible, use a bridle.
Move slowly to prevent sudden strain on slack line.
Be ready to cast loose or cut the line if the towing situation becomes hazardous.
Towing Vessel
Attach the towline to the stern eye, forward bit or cleats if the fitting can take the load.
If the boat has eyebolts in the transom for pulling skiers, a towline may be attached to a
small bridle hooked to both eyebolts.
If it is necessary for the towed vessel to be towed after being freed, keep someone at the
wheel to steer.
Both Vessels
If you attach the towline to a fitting, be sure the fitting is fastened with a through bolt and
is reinforced on the underside.
Creating a bridle with a line around the hull or superstructure will distribute the load over a
wide area, pad pressure points. This technique can be used on both the towing and towed
boat.
Keep lines clear of propellers on the other boat.
Keep hands and feet clear of the other boat.
Never hold a towline after it is pulled taut.
PERSON OVERBOARD
Immediately sound an alarm and keep pointing to the person overboard.
Threw a life preserver even if the person is wearing a PDF. It will serve as a marker.
Immediately stop or slow the boat, then circle toward the victim.
Keep the overboard on helm side so operator has the person constantly in sight.
Approach from downwind and move alongside into the wind for pickup.
