Safety advice has been issued this week after coastguards, lifeboats and the port authority have dealt with several incidents where vessels have broken down or the persons on board vessels have not been equipped for any kind of emergency. Although no-one came to grief and things were soon resolved, any of these mishaps could have resulted in tragedy. It is advisable for all vessels however small or wherever they may travel to have aboard a VHF radio in order to call for assistance. Always made sure at lease one person on board knows how to operate the radio - there are many training courses around the Pembrokeshire area were one can qualify and obtain a licence for using the radio. Ensure there are other means on board for attracting attention - flares are the most useful. A mobile 'phone is handy, but not reliable as when at sea level and close to cliffs etc., the signals are almost non-existent. Find out from your local coastguard or lifeboat station the ways you can ensure you vessel is in tip top condition and raise your own awareness of dealing with hazards and emergency situations etc. Always carry an anchor and have paddles aboard smaller vessels. If a regular boat user join the coastguard registration system (CG66) - details again from your local coastguard station. And above all be safe and not sorry.
