Top tips for safe use of a tender
QWhat are your top five basic safety rules that should be followed when using a tender? Kim Harman, Alvor, Portugal KEITH COLWELL REPLIES: This is a good question since using a tender can be the most dangerous part of going afloat.
Only use the tender when the conditions are suitable. If it’s too rough, or too windy, don’t go.
Always wear a lifejacket. Do not overload the tender – better to make several trips lightly loaded – and make sure the weight is evenly distributed. If the tender is small, always step into the middle when boarding.
Carry a means of communication in case you need to call for help – handheld VHF, PLB or personal pyrotechnics.
Carry an alternative means of propulsion. For example, paddles or oars if you’re relying on a small outboard, or emergency oars or paddles if you’re under oars alone. And if I were permitted to make a couple more additions, it would be to carry a small anchor and warp (depending on the depth of where you’re boating), a bailer or bilge pump and, at night, a white lantern or torch.