Additions to my emergency kit - The Hull Truth

atsenaotie · 03-05-2009, 12:16 PM

Like many, the recent loss of life in the Gulf has me re-evaluating my emergency kit. It already has epirb, hand vhf, flares, SOS light, distress inflatable, gallon of water, energy food, whistle, sunscreen. We wear our inflatables, and have beacon lights in them.

It occurs to me that a couple of knit hats would be small to add and would help preserve body heat if in the water or at night with a temperature drop. I carry spare clothing on board, but these would fit into the ditch kit.

My other thought is that some lines to tie off with would help in staying with a flipped or swamped boat and keeping the party together in rough seas. Probably some of the bungee type line to help absorb the impacts.

CGaviator · 03-05-2009, 12:35 PM

Another item - add some cheap swim goggles. After about 4 hours in the water or in blowing salt spray your eyes will start to swell and after about 12 hours they'll be close to swollen shut.

I got this advise from a guy who spent 18 hours in the water after he slipped off the stern of his boat while trolling in South Florida. He was miraculously found about 18 hours later still swimming/treading water off the keys.

atsenaotie · 03-05-2009, 02:32 PM

Good idea, I did not think of goggles, bnut can see where they could make sense.

bikem · 03-05-2009, 02:44 PM

If you buy hats I think 100% wool will still insolate when wet.

Kamper · 03-05-2009, 03:37 PM

"Seal Glasses" are eye protection for towable riders. They make a seal just like a scuba mask. Because they are wider and tinted they offer superior protection (imo) to simming goggles and are more likely to be carried since they have a normal function.

My 2cents on that.

jcwiza · 03-05-2009, 09:02 PM

It has occured to me to throw a couple of shortie wetsuits in the ditchbag. I have a couple of them hanging around the house and they don't take up a lot of room. They really keep you warm when in the water.

sickcat · 03-05-2009, 09:49 PM

Ditto the wetsuit idea. Also keep those whistles ON the PFDs.

fishnutz · 03-06-2009, 06:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bikem

If you buy hats I think 100% wool will still insolate when wet.

you could even take that one step further and keep 1.5mm neoprene dive hoods on board. A little more expensive, but $22.95 would sound pretty cheap after a few hours in the water.