On the water, conditions can change and emergencies can happen quickly. Having the right gear on board can make the difference in any emergency situation. This roundup of gear will get you through them.
By
Jen Brett
Updated: October 23, 2014
ACR RapidDitch bag
What you pack your abandon-ship supplies in is nearly as important as the items inside. The ACR RapidDitch bag has space for all your safety gear, offers 25 pounds of buoyancy, and has a shoulder strap that turns into a tether. $90, www.acrartex.com
Signal Mate Fog Horn
If you sail in an area where fog happens, you’ll appreciate the Signal Mate portable controller. This unit is designed to automatically produce the Coast Guard’s required light and sound signals during reduced visibility. $800, www.miseagroup.com
Musto BR2 Offshore Jacket
The Musto BR2 Offshore Jacket is made with cruising sailors in mind. The two-layer construction is waterproof and breathable, and the fleece-lined collar offers full protection. Large cargo pockets keep your essentials handy. $350, www.musto.com
SOS Marine Dan Buoy
Seconds count in a crew overboard situation. For that reason, the SOS Marine Dan Buoy is designed to be fast and easy to use. Simply throw the package in the water and the marker automatically inflates, the strobe is activated and the person in the water can hang onto attached handholds. $300, www.just-marine.net
The SOS Marine Dan Buoy deployed and in use.
The SOS Marine Dan Buoy deployed and in use.
The Ditch Kit
Take the guesswork out of packing an abandon-ship bag. The Ditch Kit is designed to be a comprehensive survival pack and is outfitted with everything from rations to flares, all organized in a Pelican waterproof case. $700 and up, www.theditchkit.com
