The recent concern about the possible dangers of using mobile telephones in cars has overshadowed the equal danger that these instruments pose to the users of small boats. It is well known to all of us how much concentration is necessary when sailing a dinghy, and not only in congested waters. Loss of concentration for only a few seconds is enough to cause a sharp luff or a broach which may unbalance the helmsman or crew and which, in crowded waters, could easily lead to a collision with another boat or capsize of your own. It is clear that groping for a mobile phone in a waterproof bag, or peering at it to dial a number is just the sort of distraction that could cause such trouble.

If small boat users must use mobile phones it is clear that they must either heave-to (displaying the correct 'not under command' signal), or drop their sails and anchor out of the fairway. The same applies to the users of small run-about motorboats where the dangers are compounded by the speed at which they travel. It is the duty of all responsible boating organizations such as the DCA to bring this should be the task of the Coastguard to pursue danger to the attention of their members, and it people who thus endanger life and property by their inconsiderate use of these instruments. I look to see a suitable note added to the DCA safety recommendations on this subject. (Note - this was written on the morning of Easter Bank Holiday Monday 2002).

Aidan de la Mare