Quote:
Originally Posted by codprawn
I agree - an auto lifejacket is designed to right you even if your knocked out - how would you get out from under the rib???
I have noticed quite a few of the suspension seats that are being fitted to RIBs now have 5 point harnesses - the same applies!!!
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but its about balancing different risks isn't it?
- risk of ejection from the craft
- risk of musculoskeletal injury in rough water
- risk of head/facial injury from hitting console
- risk of capsize
- risk of being trapped under a capsized boat, unconscious
and the likely consequences... in the OP's part of the world if he is singlehanded then ejection from the boat could be very serious (e.g. even with a PLB it will be a long time to rescue).
Even fractures/bleeding following a console collision in that part of the world would be very serious and would probably be much more likely than capsizing - assuming the boat is well balanced and the skipper suitably experienced.
If we can fire lifejackets automatically presumably we can fire self righting bags. Likewise if liferafts can autorelease presumably so could a
5 point harness.
So I wouldn't dismiss it out of hand - although if its making you scared perhaps its time to throttle back? wingbacks on the seat might offer more security too...
Am I right in thinking that raceboats only "strap in" if they have air on board and rescue boats with divers?