Lifesling2 Overboard Rescue Instructions
The Lifesling2 procedure may not be effective
without prior practice. The rescue method may vary
according to size and handling characteristics of your
vessel. Keep the victim in sight! The POB (person
overboard) can be quickly lost from view in any kind
of sea. Post an available crew member to keep an eye
on the POB and maintain as little distance between
the vessel and the POB as possible.
Option 1:
IMMEDIATELY circle the POB while deploying the
Lifesling2 astern of the vessel as if picking up a
water skier. (fig.1)
The Lifesling2 will trail behind the boat at the end
of the floating retrieval line. Practice has shown that the
Lifesling2 or retrieval line should reach the POB within
the first or second circle. Do not run over the retrieval
line and avoid hitting the POB.
Note: This method is preferred for single-handed
rescues but is also reliable for fully crewed boats. It
is simple in execution and does not require the more
precise maneuvering used in Option 2.
Option 2:
IMMEDIATELY initiate your pre-planned maneuver
to get back to the POB. (fig.2)
Carefully approach 6-10 feet from the POB, keeping
stern and propeller area away from POB and throw the
Lifesling2 when POB is close by. Do not throw the
Lifesling2 if the POB is more than 10' away: tangles
and misses could delay the rescue. Do not throw into
the wind.
Note: This method may be faster than Option 1,
but may require more skill in boat handling. It is not
preferred over Option 1 if the pick up is single handed
or if in rough seas.
When the Lifesling2 reaches the POB, stop the
boat immediately (sailboat drops sails, powerboat
stops engine). (fig.3)
The POB places the Lifesling2 under the arms. The
strain on the retrieval line will close the bolsters around
the POB. Built-in 20 lbs flotation supports the POB. Do
not tow POB behind boat. The POB could be pulled
under the water.
Turn off the engine(s) as soon as the POB has acquired
the Lifesling2. Remember that the propeller presents a
constant danger as long as the engine is running.
Deploy the Lifesling2 and circle
the victim until contact is
made, or…
Carefully approach the
victim and throw the
Lifesling2 when close by
STOP THE BOAT! Shut
down engine(s)
2
(fig.1)
(fig.2)
(fig.3)
357634-Lifesling2Manual_v2.qxd 2/21/03 11:10 AM Page 2
