Basic Types of Rafts
There are two basic life raft types, approved by Greek authorities: offshore, and ocean-going.
- Offshore rafts offer at least five days of survival time . They include two buoyancy tubes and they are equipped with water, food and safety items.
- Ocean-going rafts are designed for long-term survival of at least 30 days.
How to use a Life Raft
It is suggested to store the raft on the deck, but in most charter boats they are stored in a locker. Once you decide to abandon the boat, a choice that should be the last when you face a difficult situation, pay attention on the following steps :
- Move and place the life raft on the deck (if it is not already there) and tie somewhere the rope to open.
- Through the raft into the sea. If it does not open, pull the rope to open.
- If it opens in the sea with the bottom up, a crew member should swim to the raft and using a rope fitted on the bottom of the raft, turn it in the right position.
- All the crew members should then enter the raft
- The skipper should enter the last and cut the rope to open in order to separate the raft from the boat. Remember to take with you the EPIRP device and activate it.
Surviving in the raft
Once evacuation has been completed, take care about the following points :
- Check your supplies.
- Help and treat any injured or ill person.
- Depending on your position, estimate a rescue time and divide your water and food supplies according to the number of the persons on board.
- Have your safety equipment (flares etc) ready to use.
- Stay calm
