SURVIVAL

It cannot be stressed too strongly that your ship is your best lifeboat. Abandonment should only be considered as a very last resort. The four principal dangers to be faced; 1) drowning 2) the inability to maintain body temperature 3) lack of water 4) lack of food. The implications of these dangers in terms of priorities of actions that need to be taken in survival craft. Protection against exposure is a high priority in cold climates. The survival equipment available in survival craft. The importance of keeping warm and dry. The use of drogues. The use of lifejackets and thermal protective aids. The significance of leadership in survival situations. Strength of mind will often be more important than strength of body. Inside and outside watches in survival craft, their tasks and importance. The use of detection equipment including the EPIRB and SART. The pyrotechnics, when and how to use them. The importance of water supplies.

Actions to be taken if you find yourself in the water. Make yourself familiar with the life saving appliances on your ship. Make sure you know your duties as designated on the muster list. Study the ship's general emergency plan and participate fully in all training and drills. This comprehensive series forms a substantial and comprehensive training package.