MOB ALERTS AND LOCATORS

We tested a variety of alert and location devices in locations as diverse as the English Channel, the Faroes and the coast of Norway. The useability of the kit for everyday sailors was a key criteria, so crews were given an introduction to the equipment and a read of the instructions but not detailed training prior to deployment. When conducting some of the overboard tests, a casualty was taken by RIB up to 300m away from the yacht, which allowed us to test ranges, visibility and performance. Tests were conducted in daylight and at night, although only in relatively calm conditions. The equipment is likely to be used for real in heavy weather, so we expect it to be pretty much foolproof in benign conditions.