Navigation and Seamanship

Bad weather

 Bad weather:

        The fishermen may encounter bad weather especially during monsoon season and cyclones. It is very important that he should take positive action to save his crew and vessel in such an eventuality. During the cyclone, it is always wise to return to the port as and when a cyclone warning is received, because small fishing vessels will not be able to withstand the fury of the sea. Anyway, during bad weather he should prepare himself to face it. The following points are worth mentioning.

a)     Reduce the speed.

b)    Give fog signals and switch on the navigational lights in case of poor visibility.

c)     Increase the look-out.

d)    Restrict the movements on the open deck

e)     Close all hatches water tight.

f)      Inform the engine room and galley.

g)     Remove the awnings.

h)    Hear the weather warnings for fishermen and act accordingly.

i)       Suspend the fishing operation, if deemed necessary.

j)       In case of a cyclone return to the nearest port

       

Whenever a coastal strip is affected by bad weather, weather warnings for fishermen are broadcast in regional languages by All India Radio.