The NFSA has established and recommended safety guidelines for sea anglers, it has representation on both the steering and working groups of the Marine & Coastguard Agency and has played a full part along with the National Federation of Charter Skippers and the Professional Boatman’s Association in establishing Code of Practices for Charter Boats and the Inshore Code for boats operating from a nominated port of departure. This has set a standard and a legal obligation for boats which take anglers to sea, ensuring that they are as safe as possible and carry the required safety equipment.
We recommend that anglers only use those
boats that are properly licensed for their area of operation and carry
adequate insurance.
We also sit on the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s, Non Regulation
Pleasure Vessels Competence of Users Working Group, and have assisted in
producing their ‘Angling Safety Booklet’. We totally support the work of
the RNLI and in particular their Sea Safety Check Initiative introduced
in 1999, it has been a great success and of great value for those who go
to sea in small boats. Further information and leaflets are available
from the Head Office.
Be Safe Afloat
| Have on board | Before Sailing |
IN AN EMERGENCY DIAL 999 AND ASK FOR THE COASTGUARDS |
| Lifejackets for everyone. | Check weather and tides. | |
| Spare fuel. | Wear suitable clothing. | |
| Two anchors / Ample rope. | Tell someone your expected return time. | |
| Oars or spare engine. | Do not overcrowd your boat. | |
| Compass. | Do not take chances. | |
| First Aid Box. | ||
| VHF Radio / Lights. |
Safety on Shore
| At Night | When Rock Fishing |
| Do not fish alone in remote spots. | Wear sensible footwear. |
| Take more than one light. | Take a rope. |
| Tell someone where you will be and your expected return time. | |
| Be aware of rising tides, don’t be cut off. | |
| Take care when casting. | |
| Always carry a First Aid Kit. |
