STORM TRYSAIL CLUB

SAFETY GUIDELINES

The Storm Trysail Club (STC) as a service to competitors may prescribe certain safety equipment and procedures, but sailing is an inherently risky activity and it is the captain (owner) and crew's responsibility to use their best judgment regarding participating in a race, continuing to race, and the use of safety equipment and procedures.

Except as modified by these STC Guidelines, the provisions of Section 5 "Personal Equipment" in the Offshore Special Regulations apply. STC Guidelines take precedence whenever they exceed the requirements of Section 5, except competitors are not required to wear personal flotation or harnesses while starting or finishing unless the captain (owner) so requires or any one of the conditions in the following paragraph apply.

A harness (with tether) and lifejacket with whistle and reflective material shall be worn:

      a) between the hours of sunset and sunrise
      b) when alone on deck
      c) when reefed
      d) when true wind speed is 25 knots or above
      e) when visibility is less than one nautical mile

For Category 3 and 4 races, the harness (with tether) is recommended but not required.

Each crew shall carry a personal strobe between the hours of sunset and sunrise.

In any case, any and all safety equipment should be utilized by the crew whenever conditions warrant.

Competitor’s specific attention should be directed to the Racing Rules of Sailing 2001-2004 Fundamental Rule 1.1 which states "A boat or competitor shall give all possible help to any person or vessel in danger."

The STC reserves the right to alter these Guidelines at any time.