Health and Safety

The Club regulations  and sailing instructions do not reduce the absolute responsibility of the owner/person in charge of the crew, the boat and her management. Health and Safety Rules must be obeyed at all times. The club shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, death or personal injury however that is caused to the owner/person in charge or crew, as a result of taking part in any sailing activity. It is a Club rule that all sailors wear suitable personal buoyancy at all times when at sea.

Health and Safety Rules

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The Nicosia Sailing Club requires its members and their guests to pay attention and abide by the following Health and Safety Rules, Procedures and Instructions.

1. Sailing and/or Windsurfing requires strength, stamina and adequate swimming ability. Be aware of your limitations. If in doubt, don’t go out.

2. If you suffer from a serious medical condition that can impair your physical/sailing abilities you must inform the Club’s Secretary immediately.

3. Carry a whistle in case of emergency.

4. Always check your rigging for worn ropes, loose fittings or a cracked universal joint.

5. Check the weather forecast, and be on the lookout for sudden weather changes especially storms with thunders and lightnings. Water conducts electricity, so stop windsurfing, boating or any activities on the water if you see or hear a storm and get to shore.

6. Do not rush to sail in strong wind conditions and use only suitable equipment for the wind of the day. PROGRESS SLOWLY.

7. As with all aquatic activities, let someone RESPONSIBLE KNOW where you are going and when you will be back.

8. NEVER SAIL ALONE – there is safety in numbers. It is strongly recommended to sail in pairs.

9. Do not be afraid or ashamed to ask for advice from more experienced sailors. ALWAYS LISTEN to safety advice.

10. Beginners should stay within 200 m from the beach and always near the Club’s premises maintaining visual contact.

11. Avoid sailing/entering in NO BOATING areas or areas crowded by swimmers.

12. Avoid offshore winds especially if you are beginner or early intermediate sailor/windsurfer.

13. Be sure of your self-rescue capabilities with any boat/rig you may be using. If in doubt practice drills.

14. Dress correctly – A suitable wetsuit is necessary in winter. In the summer, wear a hat plus rush vest with long sleeves and sunscreen to protect from the sun.

15. Be aware of dehydration – drink adequate water, have water on board.

16. Sail slowly when leaving and returning to shore to avoid running aground or colliding with others or swimmers.

17. Never sail too far from the shore. Always maintain visual contact with the Club.

18. Avoid collisions at all cost by following the right of way rules in the sea.

19. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BOAT/BOARD TO TRY TO SWIM ASHORE. NEVER!!! Stay with your board no matter what! It is your best buoyancy aid. Use the International hand distress signals if necessary (slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms outstretched to each side) and whistle.

20. Be aware of hypothermia. Leave the water if symptoms occur (shivering, numb extremities and poor co-ordination).

21. Be always on the lookout for swimmers or divers who may not be carrying a warning buoy.

22. SAIL SAFELY & RESPONSIBLY AT ALL TIMES.