Post by johnathanfeates on May 3, 2019 20:40:25 GMT -6
Even though statistically improbable, falling overboard can be a serious matter. If it happens in cold water, hypothermia compounds this risk.
Most cruising destinations are in places that have warm water. Nevertheless nobody wants to find themselves in the water unexpectedly. Especially if hit over the head by the boom.
Catamaran design nowadays takes this into account, and particularly for the larger boats, keeps the boom out of harm's way when in the thingypit.
Nevertheless this is something to be well aware of, particularly when doing work at the mast. And when sailing downwind, especially with a boom that is not prevented.
If you do end up in the water, life vest technology has come a long way, with vests on the market that automatically inflate as soon as they hit water. The key thing is to wear it in the first place.
Most cruising destinations are in places that have warm water. Nevertheless nobody wants to find themselves in the water unexpectedly. Especially if hit over the head by the boom.
Catamaran design nowadays takes this into account, and particularly for the larger boats, keeps the boom out of harm's way when in the thingypit.
Nevertheless this is something to be well aware of, particularly when doing work at the mast. And when sailing downwind, especially with a boom that is not prevented.
If you do end up in the water, life vest technology has come a long way, with vests on the market that automatically inflate as soon as they hit water. The key thing is to wear it in the first place.