Safety Sailing Hardware Gear You've Gotta Have

When you're purchasing sailing hardware gear, don't forget safety gear. Some safety gear is required and some is just common sense. Here are a few safety items to include on your sailing hardware gear shopping list.

PFD's:

The absolute minimum safety equipment for any water sport is a personal flotation device. You are required to have one for every person on board plus at least one throwable flotation device. When you're purchasing sailing hardware gear, get a selection of Coast Guard approved Type I PFD's. Only Type I PFD's are designed for use on the open sea, in rough water or for a long period of time. They are also the only PFD's that turn an unconscious person face up in the water.

1st Aid Kit:

Nobody says you have to have a first aid kit, but it is common sense. Make sure it's fully stocked and contains at least the following items:

• Antiseptic
• A variety of bandaids and bandages
• Medical tape
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Analgesics (ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen)
• Protective gloves
• Instant cold compresses
• CPR mask

Water

You can get dehydrated very quickly when you're sailing. It may sound simple, but making sure you have enough water on board is one of those simple things you're likely to forget.

Sun protection

Be sure to put sun protection on your sailing hardware gear shopping list. Make sure you have enough for passengers, too, and include sunscreen, sun glasses and hats

This is nowhere near a complete list of safety sailing hardware gear; it's just a few items to get you started. Make sure you have all required safety gear and at least a 1st aid kit, extra water and sun protection