Safety Equipment & Procedures Flashcards

What does 'EPIRB' stand for and what does it do?

Answer: Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon — transmits a distress signal on 406 MHz to Cospas-Sarsat satellites, providing vessel identity and position to rescue services

An EPIRB transmits on 406 MHz to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, alerting rescue services with the vessel's MMSI and GPS position (if GPS-enabled). A registered EPIRB is far more effective than an unregistered one.

A vessel takes on water faster than her bilge pump can remove it. The crew should:

Answer: Identify and plug the source of ingress first, use all available pumps, issue a Mayday if flooding cannot be controlled

Source-finding and plugging is the first priority. Additional pumps (manual, electric, engine-driven) should be used simultaneously. Mayday should be issued early if there is doubt about controlling the flooding.

What is the purpose of a 'grab bag' on a yacht?

Answer: A portable bag kept ready at the companionway containing essential emergency items to take into the liferaft

A grab bag contains items not stored in the liferaft that are critical for survival: flares, water, rations, EPIRB/PLB, knife, torch, first aid kit, ship's papers, and communication devices.

How should a fire extinguisher be used on a small boat engine compartment fire?

Answer: Do not open the engine compartment — inject extinguishant through a fixed system or small access hole to avoid a backdraft oxygen rush

Opening the engine compartment in a fire allows a rush of oxygen that can cause a fireball. Fixed fire suppression systems inject agent without opening the compartment. Manual extinguishers should be used through a small opening.

A PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) differs from an EPIRB in that:

Answer: It is worn by an individual crew member and activates to locate that person, rather than the vessel

A PLB is a personal device worn by individuals — useful especially if separated from the vessel (e.g., knocked overboard). An EPIRB is a vessel-mounted device registered to the boat.

What action should a skipper take if a crew member falls unconscious on deck after a head injury?

Answer: Do not move unless in immediate danger; assess ABCDE (Airway, Breathing, Circulation); place in recovery position if breathing; call for medical assistance

After trauma, spinal injury must be considered — unnecessary movement risks paralysis. The ABCDE approach ensures airway, breathing, and circulation are maintained while waiting for professional help.