Stay Close to Position of Abandonment

With the improvements brought about by the GMDSS system in maritime search and rescue this is the most likely decision that will be made. Prior to taking to the lifeboat a DSC distress alert should be sent out. This can be done at the touch of a single button. In addition there are the EPIRB and SARTS which should be taken to the lifeboats when abandoning ship. The EPIRB when activated allows the marine rescue co-ordination centre (MRCC) to locate the position of survivors and guide vessels and aircraft to the rescue position.

Should the EPIRB not be in the survival craft when the vessel sinks the hydrostatic release unit will automatically release it, and it will then automatically start its transmissions. Where possible it is therefore beneficial for all the survival craft to stay together, if possible by tying the survival craft together.

The SARTS should be positioned on the extension pole, switched on and mounted as high as possible. The batteries will last for 96 hours on stand-by and about 8 hours continuous operation if vessels are in the area and accessing it.

To minimise drift, rig the sea anchor, issue anti-seasickness tablets, ensure that any persons in the water are accommodated in the lifeboat or liferaft, if possible.

Listen for whistles and look for survivors, signalling lights and lights of other rafts, ships or aircraft. The lookouts should be properly briefed in their duties with regard to the collection of useful debris, how to keep a lookout, sector searches and the use of pyrotechnics.

Дата добавления: 2015-08-26