What is the attitude of the Dinghy Cruising Association to the safety of members sailing at its functions? Concern has been growing within the Association that we should make ourselves clear on this point. We do not organise functions with safety boats in attendance, and we do not make ourselves responsible for the safety of those who sail with us: we are not equipped to do this, and would be misleading members if we led them to think we were. We must emphasise again and yet again that any member who goes to sea or attempts a coastal passage in a dinghy must, in the nature of things, be responsible for his own safety. This applies whether he sails on a private venture or attends a D.C.A. rally. Experienced members will give those less experienced any help and advice within their power, but we have no right to say to the owner of any boat, “you may not sail, since you are not equipped according to our ideas of safety.”

We have a very great regard for the safety of all who cruise in dinghies, of course, and each individual setting off on a cruise takes considerable pride in making sure that his boat is self-sufficient. Not for us the easy recourse to calling up the rescue service: apart from the fact that we may very easily be out of their reach, we see no reason why they should be put to inconvenience or even danger to help people who are, after all, pursuing their own pleasure. A list of safety recommendations was once drawn up; I do not propose to repeat it in detail, since every member must know his own boat and his own cruising ground, and prepare accordingly. The most important rule is to make sure the crew is strong enough for the proposed trip. Be modest in your first cruiser, and gain experience. A stable boat makes for a much less tiring cruise: the old rule of thumb was that the crew should be able to stand. on the gunwale in calm water without capsizing the boat. The racing dinghy sailor will think first of buoyancy and the ability to right the boat; the cruising dinghy ought never to capsize — though, of course, the rules about buoyancy apply in case the worst happens. Carry adequate equipment: anchor and warp or chain suitable for the boat and for the tidal range of the area; compass, charts and a light to see them by; some means of keeping warm and (if possible) dry; emergency rations for the duration of the passage, within easy reach; oars; bucket; and a few simple tools and materials for quick repairs; wire; spare shackles etc. Gear should be stronger than in the usual racing dinghy. Make sure you know what weather to expect: its changes can be sudden and alarming, but are usually foretold by the barometer as well as by the met. office. Always make sure you have a bolt-hole in case of the unexpected change (not that I am ruling out adventurous passages, but they are for those who know exactly what they are in for). Have means of making yourself heard and seen by other boats. Have flares, lifejackets etc., but remember that your chance of survival is slender if it has to depend on these. Joan Abrams

Friday, 28th March, “Safety Forum” at Flag and Lamb, Ross Street, W.1. Ideas to Ernie Bailey please.