|
23 July 2005 - Warning from MCA and RYA be
Sea Smart and Wear Your Kill Cord
Navigation
A warning has been issued by The Maritime & Coastguard Agency
(MCA) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) urging holiday seafarers to wear
their "kill cords" before putting to sea.
The warning comes following an incident in Seaford, East Sussex,
where the skipper of a speedboat fell overboard, causing his vessel to career
onto a crowded beach, endangering the lives of many.
The consensus seems to be one that the skipper of the runaway
speedboat was not wearing his kill cord. Had he been wearing this
vital piece of safety equipment, the engines' power would have ceased when he
fell overboard and prevented any further trauma, both to the skipper and the
many people enjoying their day at the beach.
Mr. Paul Mara, RYA Chief Power Boat Instructor, explains in his
comment about the incident, the purpose of the kill cord as follows:
"It is essential that an appropriate length safety lanyard be
worn at all times. The lanyard is a cord usually between 4 and 5 feet (1220 and
1524mm) in length when stretched out. The purpose of the safety lanyard is to
prevent the helmsman moving away from the normal operating position of the craft
whilst underway, either intentionally or by accident.
"In the event of the helmsman being ejected from the steering
position the lanyard will stop the engine. Attach the lanyard in a secure
method, either around the helmsman's leg or personal floatation device, in a way
that will not foul the steering and throttle controls. Attaching the lanyard
around the helmsman's wrist is not recommended."
Mr. Peter W Brown, MCA Prevention Manager said:
"There really is no excuse for users of fast open powerboats
not to be wearing kill cords, for their own safety afloat, and for the safety of
other people"
Please take a moment to visit the MCA's Sea Smart website if
embarking on a seafaring pleasure trip. It provides excellent advice
for the safety of seafarers and can be accessed by clicking the following:
MCA Sea Smart
Article by Alexandra Johnston
 Click Here to
Email This Article To a Friend
|
