Man Overboard! Sea Dragons to the Rescue
Last night, the Sea Dragons gathered for an overboard rescue training session, and it was a fantastic success! Partnering with Ladysmith Search and Rescue (RCMSAR Ladysmith 29), we had the opportunity to practice paddler-overboard drills using the rescue dummy (OSCAR) that RCMSAR use in their own drills. The night was filled with valuable lessons and the team came away with a renewed sense of confidence and readiness.
The ladies truly made it look effortless as they worked together to move our massive dragon boat into position, demonstrating precision, teamwork and skill. The guidance from RCMSAR was instrumental in making the evening both informative and productive. Not only did we get a firsthand experience of how to handle an overboard situation, but we also gained insights into the importance of quick thinking and clear communication on the water. We’re proud of how the Sea Dragons handled the drills with focus and determination, and we all left feeling more prepared for any situation that might arise.
It was an amazing evening, and we can’t thank RCMSAR Ladysmith 29 enough for their guidance and support. These types of training sessions remind us just how important safety is on the water.
Key Takeaways from Our Man Overboard Drill
During the session, we reviewed several critical steps and safety protocols for managing an overboard situation effectively:
Essential Gear: Always ensure your boat is equipped with a cell phone, first aid kit, two bailers, rope, and a (potentially questionable) ladder.
The Buddy System: It’s crucial to know your seat partner and use the buddy system to ensure responsibility for each other.
Man Overboard Procedure: If someone falls overboard, immediately call out “Man Overboard” and point to the person in the water. Ask if they are okay, and if they are, the overboard person should tap on their head to signal they’re fine. If they’re not okay, call SARS (*16) or 911.
Teamwork is Key: The coach or steer will direct the team to maneuver the boat, but if neither is onboard, the four paddlers in the stern will take control as they have the best visibility.
Approaching Safely: When approaching the person overboard, always approach from downwind to prevent the boat from drifting into them. This also helps the person swim toward the boat. If there’s wind, keep a distance of around 10 feet and have the person come to you.
Full Boat Overboard Scenario
In the rare event that the entire boat capsizes, here are some important actions to take:
Stay Calm and Stick Together: Stay with the boat and use the buddy system to account for all paddlers by calling out numbers—just like we do before launching.
If Trapped Under the Boat: There is an air pocket beneath the boat; use this space to breathe before ducking down and swimming out from under the boat, using the gunwales as a guide.
Signal for Help: The steer will blow the whistle three times to alert the safety boat, or to signal SARS for assistance. The course of action in such situations will be determined by the steer or the safety boat.
