Bluewater Cruising Association - Presentation & Rescue Demo

Unit 10 - Richmond recently attended the Bluewater Cruising Association's meeting on Pender Island in the Gulf Islands.  Transiting from Steveston Harbour, Search and Rescue vessel, Auxiliary 7, went over for the morning on Sunday, May 18th.  

Upon arrival in Bedwell Harbour the large gathering of Bluewater members noticed a sailboat with a improperly set anchor.  Aux 7 had to delay our demonstration to assist the sailboat.  After informing Victoria Coast Guard Radio, the Aux 7 crew went about securing the sailboat before it was blown ashore.  Before the gathering on the beach, Aux 7's crew re-positioned the sailboat and re-set the anchor safely.  

Once back on the beach, we answered questions of the members about the impromptu lesson on the importance of scope and proper anchoring.  We informed the group about the Auxiliary and their role in the SAR system.  We also explained the demonstration we were about to do, which was PAR Buckling to get a victim back aboard a vessel once overboard.  One of our members was in a dry suit in the water.  Once demonstrating this technique in close at the beach, we did one more example in open water, demonstrating the entire procedure including marking the spot of entry and keeping a spotter on the person in the water.  

Overall, it was a beautiful day on the water.  Unit 10 enjoyed the opportunity to present safe boating techniques to a very attentive and appreciative Bluewater group.

---