Self Rescue

kristin
2008-03-24 14:00:00 | 171 views | 0 Comments

When an equipment problem or adverse sailing conditions make it impossible for you to return to shore, a self rescue allows you to paddle back to safety. Remember to ALWAYS stay with your board.

Also, ONLY attempt a self rescue when you're sure you can paddle. If the wind is blowing too hard, leave the sail attached to the board and use the distress signal to let people know you need help. A fully rigged windsurfer is far easier to spot in the water.

Derig your sail. Sit on your board and face the rig with your feet in the water. Make sure you handle only one loose piece at a time while leaving other pieces attached to the board
Loosen the downhaul completely to separate the rig from the board, keeping the mast extension attached to the board
The downhaul should remain with the mast extension. Loosen the outhaul, then the inhaul, freeing the boom from the rig. Put the boom on the board, with the mast extension inside it
Without touching the battens, pull the mast out of the sail. Hold on to the tack of the sail and place the mast so it sits parallel with the bottom batten, then roll the sail tightly around the mast
When you're done rolling up the sail, put the boom on top of this “sausage” and tie the uphaul around the mast, boom and sail. Next, go to the clew and use the outhaul to fasten the back end of the boom around the sail and mast
Use the downhaul to secure the mast extension around the back of the sail and boom. You can also attach it to the footstraps, if you have any
Place everything on top of your board with the boom lying on the deck and the rig across the board to give it stability. Kneel on the board and start swinging the rig along the centerline of the board. Eventually you will get on top of the rig, with your knees inside the wide point of the boom
You're ready to paddle back. Lean forward so your chest is on your thighs, rest your head on the rig, dig deeply in the water and paddle. Or you can lie on top of the rig

Categories: Beginner How-to

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