Both the US Coast Guard and the state of Michigan have required safety equipment lists. These are items such as flares, PFD's, and navigation lights. However, because your boat conforms to these regulations does not mean you are ready to cast off. These lists should be viewed as the minimum equipment you need. For sailors the ORC special Regulations serve as an excellent set of guidelines for necessary equipment.

These regulations are used in racing, whether it's an around the world race (Category 0) or an in sight of land buoy race (Category 4 or 5). These regulations are also used in conjunction with the annual Mackinac races. What this means is that these regulations can be of use to just about any sailor, allowing you to customize equipment to your situation. Using these regulations as a jumping off point, here are what the Regulations advise in certain areas.

If your boat is around 20 years old or has seen salt water, your lifelines may need some help. Maybe age and ultra violet light has destroyed the plastic coating on your lifelines leaving wire exposed to the elements. Or salt water has had its turn and has caused corrosion right at the swage terminals. Regardless, take a closer look, because some of these systems look awful. We have seen everything from broken wires, string, and dog chain used for lifelines.

As with everything mechanical, some preventive maintenance is required. Sailboat winches are certainly no exception. Winch drums should spin freely if the winches are internally clean and properly lubricated. TMI services many winches and we are sometimes amazed at the condition of the winches that we are called upon to service.

The biggest cause of winch problems is dirt. Wind borne dust and dirt lands on the winches. With the next rainfall or deck wash, water moves some of this dirt into the winch. You would think that it would just wash into the top and out the bottom. Not so

In the West Michigan region, May usually brings Spring flowers, but in a sailing context it brings very cold water. Water so cold [40 - 50 degrees] that hypothermia sets in within 10 to 15 minutes. This can ruin your whole day, as well the day, of your family and friends. Spring sailing requires some additional preparations and an adjustment in your safety focus.

For the small boat sailor, don't be the only boat on the water. Sail with a buddy. Always wear a PFD and choose clothing that wlll retain body heat. Further you can adopt a more conservative sailing style to reduce the chances of capsizing. Try to sail where you will be visible to those on shore should you get in difficulty.