REMINDER PONTOON SAFETY

10 August 2017

Last week another customer fell between their boat and the pontoon finger in the Westwey Road marina. The lady was unable to get herself out of the water despite desperate attempts and was rescued by the RNLI Inshore Lifeboat. The following points should be considered by berth-holders:

• Do you know where the nearest escape ladder is to your boat?
• Is it worth leaving a ladder lowered on the stern of your boat in harbour if you have one?
• Think about following the harbour staff's example by wearing a lifejacket at all times on the pontoons.
• A customer has also suggested that it could be helpful to know where the closest vessel is with a bathing platform etc. on the stern as this could be used in an emergency to get out.
• Likewise please familiarise yourself with all emergency equipment on the pontoons.

Please act now to ensure you do not find yourself in the same position.  Do not under-estimate the difficulty in getting out of the water when you are shocked and cold.

Pontoon plans show the location of rescue steps and liferings and can be viewed below or here. 

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