NOAA WRN Marine Ambassador – Winter Safety On the Water

From : PilotShipper – Maritime Worker’s Guide to Winter Safety

Take Preventative Health and Safety Measures

Braving bone-chilling maritime environments impedes immune function and strains safety resources. Employ these tactics to avert exhaustion, illness and crisis scenarios.

Remain Well Rested

Fatigue degrades reflexes, situational awareness, temperature regulation and health. Maritime workers should prioritize adequate sleep when facing amplified winter rigors.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration accelerates dangerous hypothermia and frostbite. Sip warm liquids at regular intervals since even minor fluid deficits take tolls in harsh conditions.

Consume Appropriate Calories

Calorie restriction inhibits the body’s capacity to warm itself. Maritime winter duty requires heightened fuel intake from nutrient-dense foods.

Don’t Work Alone

Having personnel nearby provides backup against both routine mishaps and serious winter emergencies. The recommended guideline is the “rule of three” – at least three individuals present for higher risk tasks.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Accumulation

Cold weather prompts closed-door operation of gasoline-powered maritime machinery. But without adequate ventilation, toxic carbon monoxide wafts. Install detectors and allow ample air exchange.

Service Fire Suppression Systems

Fires present maximum threat within icy confines offshore. All fire alarms, sensors, extinguishers and blankets must undergo certification to function when desperately needed.