The Lifesling rescue device was developed by The Sailing Foundation more than 30 years ago and today there are thousands of Lifeslings aboard boats all around the world.  The Lifesling is still regarded as the best device for rescue of a crew overboard, but to be effective, even a skilled sailing crew needs some training in its use.  In 2009, The Sailing Foundation set a goal to produce a new package of training materials on the use of the Lifesling.  This package would include:

1. A stand-alone video to introduce the subject at the start of training sessions. The video will also be packaged with the product and screened in stores;
2. Lecture text for instructors;
3. PowerPoint slides to go with the lecture.

We have drafted the lecture and PowerPoint framework, and, in October, 2010 we filmed the video in Santa Cruz, CA.  About 15 volunteers were involved with the event, including Andy Anderson – videographer; John Rousmaniere, noted author and lecturer on Safety at Sea and Lifesling subjects – narrator; Carol Hasse, Port Townsend sailmaker – playing the role of skipper whose partner has fallen overboard; and Ryan Helling and Tad Lhamon – TSF board representatives.  Thanks to the efforts of Chuck Hawley,  we had a large contingent from West Marine who served as victims, crew members, and support team.   While The Sailing Foundation is the primary sponsor of this effort, we are grateful for the support of both West Marine and the Bonnell Cove Foundation.

Our video is now complete, providing an 11-minute DVD, organized as follows:

1. Introduction to the Lifesling
2. Basic Lifesling rescue upwind, double-handed
3. Doublehanded rescue off the wind
4. Fully crewed rescue, downwind, spinnaker
5. Doublehanded rescue, powerboat.
6. Conclusion emphasizing practice

Our first training session employing these new materials is scheduled for Sunday, September 25 at the CYC clubhouse at Shilshole.  This will include about 90 minutes of classroom presentation, and more than 2.5 hours of instruction at the docks and aboard the boats of Sailing Foundation volunteers.  Check our website for details and for signup information.

The Sailing Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of sailing in the Pacific Northwest with primary emphasis on youth programs and safety at sea. The Sailing Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and we welcome your deductible contributions.    WWW.THESAILINGFOUNDATION.ORG