Our advices

Be prepared

Surpass the regulations

The regulations require a fire extinguisher for every habitable 20 m2. For a motor compartment, one may use a remote control model. Ideally, install an extinguisher per cabin. Always think about the accessibility of the fire extinguisher after the fire has started. For the galley, it is prudent to double up with a fire blanket.

Act quickly

The speed of response is paramount ,especially as the operating time of a fire extinguisher is very brief. Count on 6 seconds for a model of 1 kg, for a 2 kg model on 8 to 10 seconds and 25 seconds for a 6 kg. All models have the same trigger system. Do not wait until a fire starts to read the manual.

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The universal signal of distress

The regulations

Less than 2 miles
No flares
Coastal 2 to 6 miles
1 set of 3 SOLAS approved hand flares
Offshore, more than 6 miles
1 set of 3 SOLAS approved hand flares
3 SOLAS approved parachute flares
2 SOLAS approved smoke cannisters
(Flares and smoke are not mandatory if the boat is equipped with VHF DSC coupled with a GPS.)

Go beyond the regulations

Less than 2 miles from shelter no flares are obligatory. Do though, take at least 3 hand flares, a small investment that may prove useful to indicate distress. Between 2 to 6 miles, it is advisable to move toward a kit identical to

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ENERGY PRODUCERS, autonomy!

Whether for navigation (instruments, lights,) for manoeuvres (windlass,) or for
comfort (refrigeration, lighting,) it is impossible to do without electricity. All these
consumers must be connected to a power supply (12 or 24 volts) that must be
maintained. If this can be done without returning to land, we really do achieve the
independence and autonomy sought at sea.

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THE BATTERIES, how to choose your battery

DETERMINING THE CORRECT BATTERY CAPACITY

Through three examples we compile an electrical balance from three boats equipped differently. Adapt it to your particular case.
Example No.1
Day trip, return to port at night

Equipment Instant consumption Daily use Daily Consumption Amperes Hours Amperes Comfort Refrigeration 4 6 24 Pressurized water 8 1 8 Music 1 2 2 Electronics Automatic Pilot 5 2 10 GPS/Card Reader 2 6 12 VHF Emission 4 ¼ 1 VHF reception/watch 0.1 10 1 Sounder 1 4 4 Central Navigation 1.5 6 9 Total Consumption 24h 67 Amperes

Example No.2
Day trip, night mooring

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Optimise your charge

KNOW

The standard diode battery splitter causes a voltage drop of about 0.6volts regardless of the current passing through it. However, the batteries need a voltage between 14.4 and 15 volts to be charged correctly. If a splitter is interposed between the standard alternator that delivers 14.2volts it is insufficient for recharging batteries with 13.6volts. To remedy this we offer electronic distributors without voltage drop. If you are seeking optimum charging go for these models. A load balancer is given for a maximum current, it must be chosen accordingly. For example a 70A alternator must accept, at least this current.

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