Throwable Floatation

Just wanted to see if others have addressed the issue of throwable floatation. I learned from other posts that since my boat is over 18'(the Supercat 19) the coast guard requires me to carry a throwable. 1 Are there any requirements for it to be tethered? 2. Where do you keep it so it's handy? Thanks in advance for all the good advice

John R.

To meet this reg, I keep a throwable in a Murray's tramp bag. All I need to do to use it is unzip the bag - tying it down to the tramp would make it hard to use if you needed it. I attach the bag to the rear of the tramp where it's less in the way but still easy to access. For racing I require those on board to wear a vest regardless of conditions, but having the throwable is still a good idea.

Having a throwable isn't a bad idea in addition to meeting regulations. A couple of years ago in the C-100 a SC-22 went turtle in heavy conditions. The boat was righted by running the throwable up (down?) the mast on a halyard. On very slow and long races I've pulled it out to sit on when the hulls get particularly hard on the body.

Thanks Keith- I forgot the first question which is what throwable do you use?- I'm assuming from your answer that is an old square cushon with straps like I used to use in fishing boats?

John R.

calcheck

thats what we use.

Yup. Standard model type thing. I try to keep it relatively new so it will float when needed...

uh..
as opposed to as old and squashed and small as possible?


I saw somebody with a half a cushion and he claimed that it counted!

Where in the rules does it say you are allowed to leave these off the boat in a buoys' race? Are you in violation when you do?

It is required by most state regulations that boats over a certain length carry a throwable flotation (PFD Type IV) device. Alabama state law sets the minimum length at 16 ft (meaning 16 ft and up must have a throwable accessible).

No exception for racing that I know of.

Does it have to be attached to the craft, or can I strap it to my butt while I'm sailing? If my crew flies off the boat, I can just toss it like a grenade and let the line spool out...

Keeps the chaffing down, too...

To think 30 years ago we used to bitch about having to wear life jackets while racing.

About the same # of years ago, I had a Park Ranger try to tell me we needed lights, horn and a fire extinguisher (on a H16)! After a heated discussion I let him write his citation (he had the gun) and it was later thrown out.