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The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) have joined forces to reveal RYA SafeTrx as HM Coastguard’s new official voluntary safety identification scheme.
RYA SafeTrx: designed to improve safety at sea
The world-leading RYA SafeTrx app is designed to improve safety at sea and potentially cut vital minutes off the time taken to pinpoint a casualty’s location. It monitors your boat journeys and alerts designated emergency contacts should you fail to arrive on time.
Using iPhone and Android smartphone technology, this free tracking and alerting system is easily accessible and ideal for everyone who enjoys being on the water – from kitesurfers and kayakers to dinghy sailors and powerboat users.
Notify the Coastguard at the touch of a button
The free RYA SafeTrx mobile app and website, now supersedes the HM Coastguard CG66 scheme. It combines a more technologically cutting-edge version of the CG66 database function with additional lifesaving technologies so that you can make a 999 call to the Coastguard at the touch of a button.
The app can be used free of charge in UK territorial waters. The app is used by many other search and rescue organisations across the globe.
Freely available to any UK resident
The RYA SafeTrx app is available to any UK resident who wants to be safer afloat and already has over 13,000 users. It provides all recreational boat users with an accessible and simple-to-use way of automatically informing HM Coastguard of their voyage plans, vessel and crew information, incident data, dynamic location and even a direct 999 connection in the event of distress.
‘When we receive an emergency call we need a huge amount of information fast. This app helps us access all your details, so that you can get a swifter response with the right resources,’ says the MCA’s Director of Maritime Operations & HM Coastguard, Richard Parkes.
‘RYA SafeTrx uses real-time advanced technology. CG66 was just a database, but the new app allows users to do so much more, including summoning the Coastguard – which could save lives. The precise geolocation feature for example, allows the Coastguard to know where the caller is, an important consideration when the person in distress is unsure of where they are, disoriented, injured or unfamiliar with the area.
‘We have already contacted CG66 users to tell them about the switchover to RYA SafeTrx. The handover is well underway and from Wednesday 11 July people will be redirected from GOV.UK’s CG66 page to the RYA SafeTrx website. Information on CG66 will still be accessible to the Coastguard, but we will no longer be accepting new information.
‘I’d like to take this opportunity to remind all boaters that you must continue to use emergency alerting equipment appropriate to your sport. RYA SafeTrx complements this equipment but is not designed to be used instead of it.’ RYA Cruising Manager, Stuart Carruthers, added: ‘With the full support of the MCA, the RYA SafeTrx app promotes enjoyable boating, a safe mind set and good practice. The software consulting company behind the development of SafeTrx, 8 West Consulting, is striving to make this the default technology for keeping the ordinary seafarer safer at sea. With that goal in mind, it is vital that the product continues to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.’
RYA SafeTrx is free to download from Apple app store or Google Play. Once downloaded, boaters can run unlimited free trips using the app. In addition to the Sail Plan mode, the app has a tracking option called Track Only mode, which enables boaters to analyse their speed and performance on the water while racing or cruising. For customers who do not wish to use the mobile app, there is an option to register their details online at
Six safety must-haves at sea
When it comes to safety gear on a powerboat there’s a lot of advice to consider.
Rachel Andrews, RYA Chief Instructor for Motor Cruising and Power, gives us the lowdown on her six safety must-haves at sea with her top tips on getting the most from the equipment:
1 – Life jackets
Worn correctly a life jacket could save your life. It should turn an unconscious person face-up and requires no action by the user to maintain this position. They come fitted with manual or auto-inflation firing heads and are very comfortable nowadays. It is important that you find one that fits snuggly and many companies now produce children’s versions too.
Top tips:
- Check them over for signs of wear and tear and get them serviced in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually annually).
- Addition accessories such as a spray hood and light should be considered depending on the type of boating you do and the areas you are thinking of visiting. It is essential that life jackets are fitted correctly and crotch straps are used if fitted.
2 – Kill cord
The kill cord saves lives – but only if worn properly. The red coiled lanyard has a quick release fitting and one end and a clip at the other. It should be worn at all times when the engine is running. If the driver is dislodged the engine automatically cuts out. Clip it around the knee and back on itself. Most boats will not start without the kill cord in place, so we strongly advise having a second kill cord on board to restart the boat in case driver and kill cord accidentally go overboard.
Top tips:
- Kill cords are constantly out in the elements, so we recommend checking them regularly. Feel the length of the plastic coating for signs of degradation/cracking; check for colour fade; corrosion on metal parts such as the clip and crimps; loss of elasticity – and replace early to avoid failure.
- Ensure it is the correct fit for the switch – buying a manufacturer’s own brand is advised. To ensure the best fit some big brands are now available in the RYA shop: visit www.rya.org.uk/go/shop and look under the Sea Safety section. It should connect snugly, but without forcing, and should release under a 15kg/30lb breakstrain – anything that is harder to connect or release should be replaced.
- Carry a spare and replace regularly
3 – VHF radio attached to you
Radios are vital for staying in contact with the coastguard. Although in many instances a mobile phone may work, it is not designed for the marine environment and coverage may be non-existent just when you need it most. Knowing how to use a radio correctly and knowing which channels to use will prevent unnecessary transmissions which could block out a distress call. It also means you’ll be able to get your information across quickly and easily.
Top tips:
- If you carry a waterproof, preferably floating, handheld marine VHF radio you will be able to call for help if you end up parted from the boat, (so long as help is within line of sight).
- The VHF should be registered with Ofcom and the user needs an operator’s certificate. Details about RYA Short Range Certificate (SRC) course can be found here: rya.org/go/SRC
- Did you know you can call National Coastwatch on Channel 65 for your radio check to reduce traffic on Channel 16. They are always happy to help.
4 – Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
A PLB is a great piece of kit to carry on your person when on your boat. If activated they notify the coastguard of your position, which assists search and rescue services to accurately pinpoint where you are. These are especially useful if you are out of range of VHF contact or mobile phone signal. These can be used for any activity afloat, whether on your own vessel or someone else’s as they are registered to the individual and not linked to a boat. Once activated, the PLB has a minimum of 24-hour battery life.
Top tip:
- Remember to register individual units with the coastguard and amend your registered details if any of your emergency contact details change.
5 – Distress Flares
Flares are valuable for ‘final mile’ locating by day and by night and in poor visibility. It is worth carrying at least three flares on board.
Top tips:
- Flares should be stored in a dry container that is insulated from being bumped around and is easy to access, and stowed away from any sources of ignition.
- Keep a pair of heavy duty gloves with the flares to wear should you need to activate them.
- Modern technology provides safer and more reliable options for distress alerting than flares, and presuming such technology is carried aboard a pleasure craft, the owner may now wish to consider reducing their complement of flares.
6 – Mobile phone in a waterproof case
This is useful as a back-up, and should be carried on your person rather than stowed in a locker where it may be difficult to access should the need arise. Be mindful that mobile coverage is not great afloat so you should always have a VHF Radio as well. Mobile phones should be considered a back-up method of communication, remember that if you call the coastguard from a phone, only they hear you. However, if you do so from a VHF radio, everyone who is listening to that frequency in the vicinity can respond to your call for help
Top tip:
- Consider taking a battery powerbank to top up your charge
Learn more about equipment and RYA courses at www.rya.org.uk/go/safety
SafeTrx App
Top tip for coastal trips in UK Waters: download the RYA’s free SafeTRX app which allows you to log a trip with a start and end time, and an optional waypoint. If you run over your anticipated finish time and have not amended or ended the plan a text is sent to your nominated emergency contact is sent. The message sent includes details that they could pass to the Coastguard who can access your track details and establish your last known position.
For more details visit www.rya.org.uk/go/safetrx
This is to advise you that there is now a Defibrillator in Carrick Castle behind the castle on the wall of the Hillside flats by the car park.
There is also a Life Ring with 30 metres of floating rope attached on a post in the middle of the village on the shore below Morrison’s Park in Carrick Castle.
On 8th August 2018 the club’s WiFi service has been upgraded to receiving fibre Broadband beamed out to the two Visitors’ Moorings in Carrick Castle.
The service should be a vast improvement over the past service provided as fibre Broadband has only just come to Carrick Castle.
Please note that the Carrick Castle Boat Club complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) that came into effect on 25th May 2018.
Secretary,
Carrick Castle Boat Club
Get Afloat at Scotland’s Boat Show
RYA Scotland is once again getting people afloat at the 32nd edition of Scotland’s Boat Show taking place this October at Kip Marina.
Kip Marina, Inverkip, Inverclyde, Scotland, PA16 0AW
Friday 12th, Saturday 13th October, Sunday 14th October 2018
Free Admission – Parking £5 per vehicle
Following the success over the past two years in providing first time boating experiences for hundreds of visitors, many more can gain a range of on the water activities.
RYA Scotland has supported Scotland’s Boat Show hosted by the Holt Leisure Group for the past four years. Working in partnership with RYA Training providers sportscotland National Centre Cumbrae, You & Sea, Ocean Youth Trust Scotland and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, RYA Scotland is providing FREE sail and powerboat experiences during the three day event, to get you on the water straight away.
From a cruising yacht to a motor cruiser or a RIB driving experience to fully accessible sailing dinghies, visitors will have the opportunity to get afloat with RYA Scotland. The programme of on-water experiences can be booked in advance at the Scotland’s Boatshow event website from start of October or by booking at the RYA Scotland Pavilion on the day.
The support of the sportscotland National Centre Cumbrae along with You & Sea who will be providing different on the powerboat experiences at the show. David Frame of the national centre said. “It’s great to work with RYA Scotland in providing memorable experiences that lead on to getting involved in water based sports on more regular basis. We will also be bringing one of our training yacht along this year which gives a great balance to the powerboat fleet at the show.”
Alongside the national centre’s training yacht the Ocean Youth Trust’s ALBA Volunteer will be taking out groups for 2 hour taster sessions from the marina and highlighting the opportunities available through the trust on their fleet.”
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park is providing a number of Hansa Dinghies, offering a small boat sailing experience that is accessible by all. It will also be the fourth year for the powerboating experience that is custom built for wheelchair users aboard the Wheelyboat.
James Allan of RYA Scotland said. “We are really excited at RYA Scotland to get visitors on the water again this year bringing together some local partners to offer some great opportunities afloat that cater for everyone at Scotland’s Boat Show. The members lounge aims to be expanded throughout the weekend this year at the Chartroom allowing our members to come along and find out more about how their membership helps boating in Scotland.”
Organiser, Kevin Blamire, explains. “Our focus for us at Scotland’s Boat Show has been to get more people on the water and RYA Scotland delivers a safe and successful environment to try a range of boating for the first time, while providing some excellent advice for those with more sea time ashore. It is great to have the team on board again.”
The RYA Scotland Pavilion hosts a range of marine trade bodies and of course the main RYA Scotland Stand where you can find out about our work and the many benefits of becoming an RYA member. Following the success last year the RYA members lounge will be at the Chartroom Restaurant and includes a Gold Members brunch on Saturday the 13th.
To find out more about the event visit http://www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk/
Booking will be available through the event website and RYA Scotland from the 1st of October.
RYA encourages boaters to have their say on new proposals for Pleasure Vessels
Public consultation on new Code of Practice launches on 1 August
Members of the boating community are being encouraged to ‘have their say’ on the Maritime & Coastguard Agency’s new Code of Practice for Intended Pleasure Vessels and its supporting Guidance Notices as well as some new Exemptions.
The public consultation launches on 1 August and runs for 8 weeks until 26 September. The Code of Practice for Intended Pleasure Vessels (IPV Code) and its supporting Guidance Notices – which will be introduced on 1 January 2019 – addresses temporary commercial use either for business purposes or as a race support boat.
The MCA is urging the boating community to read through the proposals on how they plan to make the water a safer place for everyone while giving the opportunity to legitimately operate commercially on a temporary basis for certain activities. The IPV Code team will be available to discuss the new framework at a series of key dates throughout TheYachtMarket.com Southampton Boat Show.
Additionally, the MCA is replacing Marine Guidance Notice 538 on Pleasure Vessels which introduces exemptions that mark a significant positive step for the Pleasure Vessel manufacturing sector in the UK and phases out the use of ORC liferafts.
Collaborative working
Ian Lardner, Head of Marine Technology for the MCA said: “We have been working extremely closely with our partners at British Marine (BM), Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the Yacht Brokers, Designers and Surveyors Association (YBDSA) to bring about this very positive and significant step for the boating community.
“The new IPV Code allows people to use their Pleasure Vessels on a temporary single-voyage basis for sea trials, deliveries or race support activities, without using the existing commercial vessel codes which are intended for a more longer-term commercial use. We’re providing a simple means of compliance to rules that have always existed, with negligible burdens. We all think this a huge step forward and we hope as many people as possible will take the time to read through the consultation to see if there are any further developments we could consider.”
RYA Cruising Manager, Stuart Carruthers, said: “The Introduction of the IPV Code and the guidance for owners to provide race support activities for a yacht or powerboat race is a very positive step and provides a much-needed solution to a number of problems that race organisers and support staff have struggled with in the past.
“In addition, the application of the IPV Code to vessels used at sea on a single-voyage basis by owners, brokers, surveyors and repairers for business purposes relating to sale, repair, post-repair or mid-survey sea trials, customer sea trials and for vessel delivery in connection with the business purpose is also welcomed. It is very much to RYA members’ advantage for this code and associated MGNs to be adopted.”
Affordable and achievable
Bas Edmonds, RYA Racing Services Manager, added: “It’s extremely pleasing to see the MCA support the delivery of our sail racing by looking to exempt those boats supporting race activities. The IPV Code and associated MGNs provide a framework of achieving compliance for owners and parents wanting to support the sport, which is hugely welcomed by the RYA. ”
British Marine’s Technical Manager, Ross Wombwell said: “This Code of Practice for sea-trials and transportation provides the industry with an affordable and achievable solution, and provides much needed clarity on what had been a regulatory grey area for our members and boat owners for a number of years.
“Now we need members and owners to review this Code of Practice and let us and the MCA know their thoughts – on the practicalities of applying these new rules, the benefits they bring, the costs involved etc.
“British Marine is on hand to answer any queries from its members on this new Code of Practice and we will be engaging the membership further over the coming months, with Q&As and guidance available at TheYachtMarket.com Southampton Boat Show in September.”
Further information
Once the external consultation has closed, the MCA will draft a final set of proposals of the new IPV Code. Any new development changes within the Code will be published accordingly.
More information about the public consultation, including a detailed consultation description, can be found on the MCA website at: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/intended-pleasure-vessel-ipv-code-pleasure-vessel-exemptions.
If you would like to contribute your thoughts to this public consultation or if you require a hard copy of the consultation, please email PleasureVessels@mcga.gov.uk.
A Community First Responder is a member of the public who volunteers to help their community by responding to medical emergencies ehile the ambulance is ob its way.
If you wanted to become a Community First Responder you would be trained in a wide range of emergency skills, and use specialised equipment such as automatic external defibrillators and oxygen therapy. You would then be able to provide an early intervention in situations such as heart or asthma attack before the professional ambulance crew arrives. This improves patient survival and recovery.
To find out more you are welcom to attend an informal meeting at 7:30 pm on 6th March at Littlewood, Carrick Castle. Tel 0130 703733 (Jean Shephard)
Jeremy Game, the local co-ordinator, will be at the meeting to explan the role of first responders and to answer any questions.
If you are unable to attend, but are interested to find out more, please contact Jeremy:-
jemgame1@aol.com | Tel: 01301 703510 | Mobile 07876 794937
Or visit the website:- http://www.scottishambulance.com/YourCommunity/responders.aspx
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This year we had a cruise in company from Carrick Castle to Ardentinny and back again after a barbecue on the beach. There was one yacht, one open boat, one rib and one day sailer travelling at between 5 & 6 knots together. Whilst there were only six members who made it to the muster, one other cruiser made it at the end and went away again and three other expected boats didn’t arrive. We suspected it may have been because of a shower of rain that was light in Ardentinny but may have been heavier in Carrick Castle. It was a fun journey in company with four boats travelling broardside in line close together. We had a good time and hope more will join in at the next muster in 2018.
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