Brogadoons OnBoard & Team15 Safety Checklist
We all love the freedom of windsurfing, but a few precautions are necessary at the lake so that we all maximise our enjoyment. It may look like a lot, but they will be automatic after a few weeks. If you would like to download and print these out, then click here. Two copies can be mounted back to back, laminated, cut into four and handed to your friends.
Protect yourself and others
Make sure you sign in every week.
Wear boots to protect feet from fresh water mussels.
Wear buoyancy aid that fits properly.
Do not jump off board near brick lined lake edge.
Hand over head to fend off mast, when falling off.
Learn signals to summon help, for yourself and others.
Always stay with your board.
Do not swim to meet safety boat.
When rescued, do as told by safety boat skipper.
When leaving the training area for a drink, to get warm or any other reasons, tell your instructor.
Check your equipment
Board - no splits or cracks.
UJ, mastfoot and fin not damaged, and secure.
Rig - Sail not torn, battens tight. Mast and boom OK.
Downhaul and outhaul - tight and ropes not worn.
Boom - set to correct height and clamped tight.
Uphaul - fitted and secured.
Carrying equipment
Two to a board if under age 16.
Always hold rig by mast and boom.
Always keep back to wind.
Do not carry rig on head, unless taught how.
Place board on shore before sail.
Place sail in water before board.
Sail Safe - The Seven Common Senses
The RYA always mentions the Seven Common Senses, which are a general set of rules for staying safe wherever you sail.
1. Is your equipment seaworthy and suitable?
- Clothing and buoyancy aid
- Board
- Rig
- Essential spares
2. Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back. Take a mobile phone.
3. Obtain a weather forecast for the local sailing area. Ask local sailors for advice.
4. Can you handle the conditions? If there is no rescue boat, and you are not sure then don't go out.
5. Sail with others.
6. Avoid strong tides, offshore winds and poor visibility.
7. Consider other water users. Give others space. Ensure you have third party insurance.
