Maritime Operations

Prep for escalation in visibility conditions. Consider taking different shipping lanes to avoid potential foggy conditions ahead.

Turn all your navigation lights on so it's easier for you to see your surroundings and for other ships to see you.

Slow down and consider dropping anchor if necessary. Listen to audio signals from the surrounding and blow your horn as needed. Use radar and electronics. Notify crews.

Have everyone dress as warmly as possible, put on their life jackets and, if possible, go below. Close all hatches, doors, watertight compartments and windows to reduce the amount of water taken on board.

When a storm threatens, head for the nearest dock or sheltered waters immediately. Match the speed of the vessel to the speed of the waves. Keep your vessel at a 45-degree angle to the wind and make slow but steady progress to the nearest port.

Hazardous conditions expected. Freezing spray can lead to ice accretion on every exposed portion of a vessel. It may cause communication equipment to cease functioning and could lead to loss of function of mechanical parts. It may also reduce vessel stability. If needed, steam downwind to minimize sea spray on the ship's deck and superstructures.

Salt surfaces and avoid any unnecessary work outdoors. Brief employees for general weather safety operations (frost bite, hypothermia, slipping on ice, etc.).

Keep everyone away from electrical and ungrounded components, and as low in the boat as possible. Monitor lightning activity, motion, directionality and speed 15 and 30 minutes into the future, based on distance from location.

Make sure the boat’s bilge pump is working well and the scuppers are clean without any dirt, to ensure proper drainage.