Safe Sailing Starts Here: A Beginner’s Guide to Safety at Sea
/Practical advice on lifejackets, tethering, dinghy use, and seamanship skills that protect you and your crew
By Michelle Segrest, How to Get Your Sea Legs
Sailing is one of the most exhilarating activities you can enjoy on the water—but it comes with real risks. Even in calm conditions, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Developing safe habits early on will not only protect you and your crew but also ensure that sailing remains a rewarding adventure rather than a dangerous gamble.
Let’s walk through the essential safety practices every sailor should know before casting off.
Why Safety at Sea Matters
Most accidents happen not during storms, but on fair days when sailors let their guard down. A moment of carelessness—slipping on deck, failing to notice a collision course, or mishandling equipment—can escalate quickly. Adopting a safety-first mindset is the foundation of good seamanship.
The Golden Rule: Stay on the Boat
The number one rule of sailing is simple: don’t fall overboard. Recovery is possible, but survival rates drop dramatically in rough seas or darkness. Most man-overboard incidents result from preventable causes like going barefoot on deck, drinking too much, or standing unsecured. Stay alert, move carefully, and always maintain a handhold.
Choosing and Using the Right Lifejacket
A lifejacket is the single most important piece of gear on your boat. But not all PFDs are created equal, and the one you choose can make all the difference in comfort and safety.
Comfort Comes First
A personal flotation device (PFD) is non-negotiable, but not all lifejackets are created equal. If it’s uncomfortable, you’ll be tempted not to wear it. Invest in a model that suits your sailing style—many sailors prefer lightweight inflatable designs with built-in harnesses.
Set a Crew Policy
Accidents can happen in perfect weather. One crew learned this firsthand when steering failure nearly drove them into rocks while they weren’t wearing PFDs. Since then, they’ve required lifejackets whenever underway. Make your own policy clear to avoid debates later—consistency saves lives.
Tethering: Staying Secure on Deck
Modern PFDs often include a clip-in point for a safety tether. Connecting yourself to jacklines (strong webbing that runs bow to stern) ensures you stay with the boat even if you slip. This is especially vital at night or offshore when help is far away.
Must-Have Safety Equipment and Protocols
Sailing safely isn’t just about gear—it’s about preparation and clear communication. The right equipment paired with solid protocols keeps everyone onboard ready for the unexpected.
Collision Regulations
Understanding the “rules of the road” at sea is crucial. Collision regulations dictate which vessel has right of way—but remember, your ultimate responsibility is to avoid collision, even if you technically have priority.
Emergency Checklists
Prepare and review safety checklists with your crew before each passage. These should cover lifejacket use, shoe requirements on deck, location of safety gear, and what to do in an emergency. Sharing expectations upfront prevents confusion when it matters most.
First Aid and Galley Precautions
Accidents onboard don’t wait for bad weather. From treating injuries offshore to avoiding burns in the galley, smart precautions help prevent common hazards before they escalate.
Courses to Consider
Offshore sailors may be hours—or days—from professional help. A wilderness or “safety at sea” first aid course equips you to treat burns, cuts, or illnesses until assistance arrives.
Preventing Common Injuries
The galley is one of the most hazardous places on a moving boat. Wear protective clothing when handling boiling water, keep knives secured, and use aprons or foul-weather gear to prevent burns. Likewise, treat winches and anchor windlasses with respect—never feed fingers or toes near moving gear.
Dinghy Safety and Communication
Your dinghy may seem harmless, but it’s often the riskiest piece of equipment. Always wear the kill cord so the engine cuts if you fall in. Use navigation lights after dark, drive slowly in anchorages, and keep a handheld VHF or charged phone onboard in case of breakdowns.
Adequate communication on the main boat is equally essential. A working VHF allows you to call for help and monitor distress channel 16. In addition, always inform someone ashore of your passage plan so they can raise the alarm if you fail to arrive.
Developing a Safety Mindset
Most important, safety at sea is about awareness and preparation. From wearing the right gear to practicing emergency drills, the habits you develop now will protect you in the future.
Good seamanship blends skill, vigilance, and humility. By respecting the sea, looking out for your crew, and maintaining a proactive safety culture, you’ll ensure every voyage is both exciting and secure.
