RIB Handling – Fog & Restricted Visibility – Part 2

Following on from my earlier post on how to deal with fog whilst cruising in your RIB, here’s a quick Collision Avoidance / Hazards / Location checklist for you:

Collision avoidance
•    Sound a fog signal
•    Post lookouts on the bows (change them frequently)
•    Have your backup engine ready for use if you have one on the transom
•    Monitor your VHF local channels
•    Avoid busy waterways and harbours with a lot of shipping – I appreciate that this rules out most of the Solent!
•    Stay in shallow water (too shallow for ships!)
•    Check your radar reflector is up and in the correct position
•    Operate your radar if your RIB has one
To avoid hitting a hazard
•    Find shallow water and anchor until the fog clears
•    Change your route or destination to an area with no dangers
•    Monitor the depth constantly
•    Set a clearing depth (a minimum depth) for your RIB

To avoid getting lost
•    Plot your position as soon as you realise visibility is reducing
•    Maintain good navigation and records
•    Follow a contour line if possible