Please ensure that all crew are wearing appropriately fitted lifejackets or buoyancy aids with a crotch strap when on deck.
Overloading of Fishing Vessels has been a contributing factor to most of the sinking's in recent years.
Ad-hoc retrofitting of vessels has also been a contributing factor to these drownings.
Ensure your crew are adequately trained and exercised
Should you experience difficulties then call the Coast Guard early so that they can initiate a prompt response to your situation.
Single-handed fishermen should not shoot their pots whilst their craft is underway with their motors engaged. On average three single-handed fishermen drown each year in Irish waters. Fishermen should put their motors in neutral as they shoot each pot. If they are using outboard motors then they should have a kill switch attached to them so that if they become snagged in the line and get taken overboard the engine will stop.
Carry a fixed or portable VHF at all times so that you have reliable communications with other craft and stations ashore. A mobile telephone does not suffice for single-handed fishing operations, but it may be useful.
Ensure that your vessel conforms to appropriate legislation, Department of Transport Codes of Practice for the size of Fishing Vessel you are operating and keep up to date with all Marine Notices.
