In South Africa, we often associate boating with freedom, relaxation, and adventure. However, a peaceful adventure can quickly turn dangerous if you notice that your boat is taking on water. This situation can escalate rapidly if left unattended, and knowing what to do in such moments is crucial for your safety and the safety of your passengers. In this article, we discuss what you should do in case you notice that your boat is taking on water in South Africa.
What Should I Do if My Boat is Taking On Water in South Africa?
We pray you never find yourself in such a situation. However, sometimes we are just too unlucky to face hazards like this one. It may or may not be your fault.
However, instead of gloating on the causes, you must prepare to tackle the sinking situation to save the lives onboard and potentially save your vessel as well.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The most vital step is to remain calm. Just because your boat is taking on water does not mean you will sink immediately. You have enough time to make effective decisions that can save the situation.
Remember, panic leads to making poor decisions, which may put the lives onboard in jeopardy.
Take a deep breath and assess how fast the water is coming in and identify the source; is it a small leak from a fitting? Or is the boat compromised due to hitting an object or grounding?
Leaks occur from sources such as a failed through-hull fitting, a broken hose, or a crack in the hull. We understand that identifying such a source could prove arduous if the boat is taking on water quickly. However, by managing so, it may help you realise your next steps.
Activate Bilge Pumps and Remove Water
If your boat has bilge pumps, now would be the right time to activate them. Use bailers onboard to accelerate the water bailing process.
We highly recommend acquiring an automatic bilge pump if your boat does not have one. Look for one that has automatic functions with a manual override switch. This decision depends on your boat type, of course. Maintain the bilge pumps on your ship regularly, as they can accumulate buildups near the discharge points that may reduce the efficiency or even clog the apparatus.
Alternately, some smaller vessels may not have bilge pumps. In such cases, you should carry bailers (buckets) onboard to deal with a situation like this.
Plug the Leak. Yes, Plug It!
Identifying the source of the leak means there is a chance you can plug it. Emergency boat repair kits are invaluable in such scenarios. The plugs usually include wooden or foam plugs, waterproof tape, and other sealing materials.
Improvise if you do not have an emergency kit on board. In such cases, you can use rags or mats to cover the cracks or holes and reduce the flow of water. Some boaters have also reported that using an inflated life jacket also helps reduce the risk, albeit temporarily.
Alternatively, you may use the super sticky wax that we use for sealing toilet joints.
Whatever method you use, it is crucial to note that it is not a permanent solution to your problem. If you think you have bought enough time, drive your boat back to the nearest safe point. On the other hand, you may consider the timely evacuation of passengers from your vessel.
If you cannot contain the situation…
Then it is time to call for help and prepare to abandon ship.
Issue a distress call with your VHF radio. You may contact NSRI via your cell or onboard radio, or use Channel 16 if other contact options fail. Do not fail to provide your location, the nature of the emergency, and the number of passengers on board.
Prepare your life jackets and ensure everyone on board is wearing one. If you have a larger vessel, you may have a life raft on board. Load it up with supplies such as flares, water, food, and a first aid kit.
Related: Increasing your Chances of Survival on the sea in South Africa
So, if your boat is taking on water in South Africa…
Then remaining calm and taking quick, decisive actions is key to dealing with the situation. Discovering your boat is taking on water while you’re on a serene cruise in South Africa can be a terrifying experience. In this article, we focused on a variety of actions you can take to deal with such a scenario.
On the other hand, regular maintenance of your boat can reduce the risk of your vessel taking on water and sinking.
Related: How to Maintain your Boat and Keep it Healthy?
Always maintain your boat on time. It is vital to your survival on the water.
If you are looking for superyacht crew courses or STCW courses, we can help you. For more information, contact us today or check our website.