Articles

We offer several types of article covering a wide range of topics. Choose your topic or article type below:

Life Jacket Changes Ahead

by Chuck Hawley, | Safety Moment
Subject: Safety Gear, Personal
In the early 1970s, a new method of categorizing life jackets was introduced by the Coast Guard and Underwriter’s Laboratories, using five “types” and a new, strange name for life jackets: the Personal Flotation Device.

Anchor Test Results

by Chuck Hawley, | Feature Article
Subject: Anchoring
In August of 2014, Fortress Anchors conducted an extensive anchor test on Chesapeake Bay, south of Solomon’s Island, in deep, sticky mud. I was asked to be the impartial observer, based on my participation in anchor tests for several decades.

The Vestas Wind Grounding on Cargados Carajos Shoal

by Chuck Hawley, | Safety Moment
Subject: Culture of Safety
On the night of November 29, 2014, while competing in the second leg of the Volvo Ocean Race, Vestas Wind ran aground on Cargados Carajos Shoal shortly after local sunset.

Safety Harnesses and Tethers (Safety Lines) for Sailboats

by Ron Trossbach, | Feature Article
Subject: Safety Gear, Personal
Harness & Tether Requirements Every crew member must have a harness & tether not more than 6 ft (or 2 meters) long.

​​​​​​​Ascending the Mast Safely

by Ron Trossbach, | Feature Article
Subject: Safety Gear, Boat
Italics Note – Items in italics should be read to an audience before the paper is distributed.

List of Improvements for Short-handed Boats

by Ron Trossbach, | Feature Article
Subject: Safety Gear, Boat
This list started when a CCA member tried to identify what changes he had to make to his boat when he started cruising with just himself and his wife. Others have added too, and this may give you a great starting point for your list!…