Boaters encouraged to use new RNLI checklists to help with safety at sea

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has teamed up with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), HM Coastguard and Irish Sailing to produce checklists to boost boat users’ skills and help them prepare their vessels for the new boating season.

The checklist information comes accompanied by rescue stats. In 2024, RNLI lifeboats launched 1,900 times to powered boat users and sailors, aiding 1,447 people and saving 42 lives. When asked whether this latest campaign was in response to boaters putting to sea with no idea what they’re doing, the RNLI spokesperson said there was really nothing more to add.

The assets created by the group provide boaters with a list of things to check before going afloat.

These include checking the weather forecast and tide times, checking onboard safety equipment and making sure the crew are wearing appropriate clothing for the conditions.

A crew briefing card encourages people to discuss the passage plan and expected weather, check for any medical conditions among the crew and check lifejackets are fitted correctly.

Boaters will also find a checklist for when they are underway, as well as an emergency action plan should things go wrong, and an emergency VHF radio calling procedure.

The checklists can be downloaded from the RNLI website.

“We always want people to enjoy our coastline, but things can quickly go wrong at sea, which is why it’s so important to be prepared,” says Sarah Pennicard, of the RNLI Water Safety Team. “By keeping our essential checklists onboard, you’ll be reducing the risks of incidents occurring or increasing in severity.”

HM Coastguard and the RYA have supported the campaign in the UK, while Irish Sailing have helped the delivery in the Republic of Ireland.

“We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the water, but it’s essential that all levels of boater, from beginner to experienced, are properly equipped to handle emergency situations that can occur on the water at any time of year, and in any conditions,” says Derrick Jones, assistant chief coastguard for HM Coastguard.

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“From the effective use of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) to lifejackets, essential checklists and crew drills such as man overboard procedures, we want to highlight that safety should be the first consideration before taking to the water this season.”

Main image, Yarmouth Severn Class Lifeboat Eric and Susan Hiscock providing safety cover at the Round the Island Race 2022, courtesy of Andrew Parish.