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Operations Operations DepartmentDepartmentOperations Operations DepartmentDepartment

Ditching, Water Survival and Ditching, Water Survival and Why You May Need A New Why You May Need A New

ELTELT

Ditching, Water Survival and Ditching, Water Survival and Why You May Need A New Why You May Need A New

ELTELT

Robert T. Shafer,

Operations (Response) Department - Deputy Chief

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Robert T. Shafer,

Operations (Response) Department - Deputy Chief

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Skills you never want to Skills you never want to use, but you’d better know use, but you’d better know

just in case!just in case!

Skills you never want to Skills you never want to use, but you’d better know use, but you’d better know

just in case!just in case!

How to manage the risks of How to manage the risks of flying over waterflying over water

How to manage the risks of How to manage the risks of flying over waterflying over water

How to plan not to ditch, but How to plan not to ditch, but how to stay alive if you do.how to stay alive if you do.

How to plan not to ditch, but How to plan not to ditch, but how to stay alive if you do.how to stay alive if you do.The Hazard – Cold water can killThings to do to prevent trouble – Risk

Assessment and ManagementWhat to do if things go very wrong –

Ditching TechniqueHow to call for help - SignalingHow to stay alive until help comes –

Water SurvivalStuff to use to help stay alive –

Equipment (Including those new ELTs)

The Hazard – Cold water can killThings to do to prevent trouble – Risk

Assessment and ManagementWhat to do if things go very wrong –

Ditching TechniqueHow to call for help - SignalingHow to stay alive until help comes –

Water SurvivalStuff to use to help stay alive –

Equipment (Including those new ELTs)

Some TermsSome TermsSome TermsSome TermsDitching: Forced landing of an

aircraft on water. (Not crashing)Survive: To remain alive.SAR – Search and Rescue:

Use of available resources to assist persons in distress.

Ditching: Forced landing of an aircraft on water. (Not crashing)

Survive: To remain alive.SAR – Search and Rescue:

Use of available resources to assist persons in distress.

Risk Management TermsRisk Management TermsRisk – Chance of injury or lossRisk – Chance of injury or lossMishap – Unplanned event causing lossMishap – Unplanned event causing lossHazard – Real or potential dangerHazard – Real or potential dangerSeverity – Potential Consequences Severity – Potential Consequences Probability – Likelihood of MishapProbability – Likelihood of MishapExposure – Amount of time, # peopleExposure – Amount of time, # peopleRisk Assessment – Evaluation of Risk Risk Assessment – Evaluation of Risk

for Specific Hazardsfor Specific Hazards

Risk Management 101Risk Management 101

Avoid Unnecessary RiskAvoid Unnecessary RiskAccept Necessary Risk When Benefits Accept Necessary Risk When Benefits

Outweigh CostsOutweigh CostsReduce Unavoidable Risk by Reducing Reduce Unavoidable Risk by Reducing

– Exposure Exposure – ProbabilityProbability– Severity Severity

The HazardThe Hazard Surface water

temperatures in the Great Lakes range from highs in late August around 65°F to 70°F

To a low in late December through late March of about 32°, or. . .

ice water.

Surface water temperatures in the Great Lakes range from highs in late August around 65°F to 70°F

To a low in late December through late March of about 32°, or. . .

ice water.

The HazardThe Hazard It’s not just the

Great Lakes! Long term

average Sea Surface Temperatures on much of both the East and West coast are less than 50° F.

It’s not just the Great Lakes!

Long term average Sea Surface Temperatures on much of both the East and West coast are less than 50° F.

Consequences of the HazardConsequences of the HazardConsequences of the HazardConsequences of the Hazard

Cold Water is a Big, Big Deal!Sudden immersion in extremely cold

water can cause sudden death. And if it doesn’t,

Cold water removes heat, and with it life, from your body.

Your life expectancy depends on the temperature of the water.

You have to stop heat loss to the cold water or you will die.

Cold Water is a Big, Big Deal!Sudden immersion in extremely cold

water can cause sudden death. And if it doesn’t,

Cold water removes heat, and with it life, from your body.

Your life expectancy depends on the temperature of the water.

You have to stop heat loss to the cold water or you will die.

Sudden immersion in Sudden immersion in extremely cold water can extremely cold water can

cause:cause:

Sudden immersion in Sudden immersion in extremely cold water can extremely cold water can

cause:cause: PainUncontrollable gasp (Torso Reflex) may

cause aspiration of water & drowning.HyperventilationChanges in BP, heart rate, cardiac

arrest & death.May be cause of many unexplained

sudden disappearances.Alcohol causes this to be exaggerated.

PainUncontrollable gasp (Torso Reflex) may

cause aspiration of water & drowning.HyperventilationChanges in BP, heart rate, cardiac

arrest & death.May be cause of many unexplained

sudden disappearances.Alcohol causes this to be exaggerated.

Greater Exposure = Greater RiskGreater Exposure = Greater Risk

Due to extreme cold, lack of muscle Due to extreme cold, lack of muscle coordination begins within 10-15 coordination begins within 10-15 minutes, making self rescue difficult.minutes, making self rescue difficult.

Water conducts heat 25 times faster Water conducts heat 25 times faster than air of the same temperature.than air of the same temperature.

Average time until death under Average time until death under good conditions good conditions

Average time until death under Average time until death under good conditions good conditions

60 degree water - survival time 7 hours 50 degree water - survival time 2.5

hours40 degree water - survival time 2 hours32 degree water - survival time 1.5

hours



hours

Reduce Probability & ExposureReduce Probability & ExposureReduce Probability & ExposureReduce Probability & Exposure

Is it really necessary to fly over water?Sometimes a short detour will avoid or

minimize long over water flights, while adding little time to the overall flight.

Fly as high as possible to extend communication range, and to lengthen gliding time and range.

Avoid flight over water if not necessary, or if you are not equipped.

Is it really necessary to fly over water?Sometimes a short detour will avoid or

minimize long over water flights, while adding little time to the overall flight.

Fly as high as possible to extend communication range, and to lengthen gliding time and range.

Avoid flight over water if not necessary, or if you are not equipped.

Reduce Probability & ExposureReduce Probability & ExposureReduce Probability & ExposureReduce Probability & Exposure Make Sure Aircraft is in Good Condition

(Sounds obvious, but apparently it isn’t.)

Make Sure Fuel is Sufficient(Again, sounds obvious, doesn’t it? Then why are so many ditchings fuel related?)

File an Flight Plan - VFR or IFR Use Lake / Island Reporting Service, or Use Flight Following

Make Sure Aircraft is in Good Condition(Sounds obvious, but apparently it isn’t.)

Make Sure Fuel is Sufficient(Again, sounds obvious, doesn’t it? Then why are so many ditchings fuel related?)

File an Flight Plan - VFR or IFR Use Lake / Island Reporting Service, or Use Flight Following

Reduce ProbabilityReduce ProbabilityReduce ProbabilityReduce ProbabilityMost sudden engine stoppages are

fuel related.Check the fuel carefully for

sufficient quantity and quality (correct type, no contamination). Then check it again.

Make sure all tanks needed are feeding correctly before going “feet wet” (over water).

Most sudden engine stoppages are fuel related.

Check the fuel carefully for sufficient quantity and quality (correct type, no contamination). Then check it again.

Make sure all tanks needed are feeding correctly before going “feet wet” (over water).

Lake / Island Reporting ServiceLake / Island Reporting ServiceLake / Island Reporting ServiceLake / Island Reporting Service

Flight Service holds your radio “guard” while you are over water.

You check in by radio every 10 min. If they do not hear from you for 15 min,

and they can’t raise you, they assume you’re in trouble, and alert SAR facilities.

It’s easy, it greatly increases your odds, and the price is right!

Flight Service holds your radio “guard” while you are over water.

You check in by radio every 10 min. If they do not hear from you for 15 min,

and they can’t raise you, they assume you’re in trouble, and alert SAR facilities.

It’s easy, it greatly increases your odds, and the price is right!

Reduce SeverityReduce SeverityReduce SeverityReduce Severity

Be Equipped w/ Life Jackets (PFDs) & Raft / Exposure Suits

Wear PFDs over WaterHave a Plan

Practice your Plan

Be Equipped w/ Life Jackets (PFDs) & Raft / Exposure Suits

Wear PFDs over WaterHave a Plan

Practice your Plan

Reduce SeverityReduce SeverityReduce SeverityReduce SeverityYes, wear the PFDs when flying

over water.They are very difficult to put on in

the plane, while you are preparing to ditch.

They do no good way in the back of the plane with the tow bar, spare oil can, expired charts, tie down ropes and $100 hamburger wrappers.

Yes, wear the PFDs when flying over water.

They are very difficult to put on in the plane, while you are preparing to ditch.

They do no good way in the back of the plane with the tow bar, spare oil can, expired charts, tie down ropes and $100 hamburger wrappers.

Be Prepared!Be Prepared!Be Prepared!Be Prepared!

Most Ditchings occur in critical phases of flight – Take Off, Landing or Hover.

92% have less than 1 minute warning.

28% have less than 15 seconds warning.

Most Ditchings occur in critical phases of flight – Take Off, Landing or Hover.

92% have less than 1 minute warning.

28% have less than 15 seconds warning.

““Preventative SAR”Preventative SAR”““Preventative SAR”Preventative SAR”Always have Positional Awareness

when over water.If you don’t know where you are,

who does?If you don’t know where you

are, how can you tell them to come get you?

Always have Positional Awareness when over water.

If you don’t know where you are, who does?

If you don’t know where you are, how can you tell them to come get you?

RecognitionRecognitionRecognitionRecognitionDon't be in Denial (It's not just a river

in Egypt)At 500 ft you have about 30 seconds

before impactFly the Airplane - Best Glide SpeedMake Radio Call - MAYDAY - Position

- POB (Persons on Board) - IntentionsActivate ELT - Transponder to 7700Aim for any vessels you see.

Don't be in Denial (It's not just a river in Egypt)

At 500 ft you have about 30 seconds before impact

Fly the Airplane - Best Glide SpeedMake Radio Call - MAYDAY - Position

- POB (Persons on Board) - IntentionsActivate ELT - Transponder to 7700Aim for any vessels you see.

Initial ActionsInitial ActionsInitial ActionsInitial ActionsSecure Loose ItemsGet Raft ReadySecure Door or Canopy OpenStow Headsets & Loose ItemsRemove & Stow EyeglassesTighten Restraining GearBroadcast MAYDAYFLY THE PLANE!

Secure Loose ItemsGet Raft ReadySecure Door or Canopy OpenStow Headsets & Loose ItemsRemove & Stow EyeglassesTighten Restraining GearBroadcast MAYDAYFLY THE PLANE!

DitchingDitchingDitchingDitching Determine the direction of the Swells and of

the Wind. Fuel Off unless power is still available. If power is still available, use it to insure

control and a margin above stall. In retracts, leave gear up. Tighten PFD's and restraints Have Passengers assume Brace Positions Reduce Sink Rate

DO NOT STALL!

Determine the direction of the Swells and of the Wind.

Fuel Off unless power is still available. If power is still available, use it to insure

control and a margin above stall. In retracts, leave gear up. Tighten PFD's and restraints Have Passengers assume Brace Positions Reduce Sink Rate

DO NOT STALL!

Fly the aircraft, remain under Fly the aircraft, remain under control.control.

Fly the aircraft, remain under Fly the aircraft, remain under control.control.

From AOPA Pilot July 1999 by Thomas Home “In flight Emergencies -------”

Brace Brace PositionsPositions


Keep feet outside of seat crush zone.

Feet forward of seat and flat on floor.

Keep feet outside of seat crush zone.

Feet forward of seat and flat on floor.

Brace PositionsBrace PositionsBrace PositionsBrace PositionsCross arms.Slip thumbs

under shoulder harness straps.

Grip straps firmly.

Cross arms.Slip thumbs

under shoulder harness straps.

Grip straps firmly.

Brace PositionsBrace PositionsBrace PositionsBrace Positions Tuck head into

the V formed by your crossed arms.

This will help prevent your neck from rotating forward and hyper extending.

Tuck head into the V formed by your crossed arms.

This will help prevent your neck from rotating forward and hyper extending.



Seat belts should be low on the hips and as tight as possible.

Shoulder restraints should be tightened as much as possible.

Seat should be aft as far as possible.

Seat belts should be low on the hips and as tight as possible.

Shoulder restraints should be tightened as much as possible.

Seat should be aft as far as possible.

Brace PositionsBrace PositionsBrace PositionsBrace Positions

For single strap shoulder restraint systems,

Grasp the single strap as shown earlier.

For single strap shoulder restraint systems,

Grasp the single strap as shown earlier.


Then grasp your shoulder with the other hand.

Again, this forms a V in which you nest your head.

Then grasp your shoulder with the other hand.

Again, this forms a V in which you nest your head.


Then tuck your head into the V formed by your arms,

Grip the shoulder strap and your unrestrained shoulder very tightly.

Then tuck your head into the V formed by your arms,

Grip the shoulder strap and your unrestrained shoulder very tightly.

DitchingDitchingDitchingDitchingIf no power is available, a greater than normal approach speed should be used down to the flare. This speed margin will allow the glide to be broken early and more gradually, thereby giving the pilot time and distance to feel for the surface -- decreasing the possibility of stalling high or flying into the water.

- - - Aircraft Emergency Procedures Over Water, USCG CG-306

If no power is available, a greater than normal approach speed should be used down to the flare. This speed margin will allow the glide to be broken early and more gradually, thereby giving the pilot time and distance to feel for the surface -- decreasing the possibility of stalling high or flying into the water.

- - - Aircraft Emergency Procedures Over Water, USCG CG-306

DitchingDitchingDitchingDitching

Calm Water - Land into windLow wind speed - Land parallel to

swells, on top of swell if possible High Wind speed - Land into wind on

back side of swells

Avoid the face of a swell!

Calm Water - Land into windLow wind speed - Land parallel to

swells, on top of swell if possible High Wind speed - Land into wind on

back side of swells

Avoid the face of a swell!

DitchingDitchingDitchingDitching

Thumbs Outside of YokeThumbs Outside of YokeThumbs Outside of YokeThumbs Outside of Yoke To

prevent them from being broken if the yoke is forced back by the impact.

To prevent them from being broken if the yoke is forced back by the impact.

Touchdown!Touchdown!Touchdown!Touchdown!Brace for Impact w/ thumbs outside of yoke.Touchdown at the lowest speed possible, but

don’t lose control.Use soft field landing technique.Use any power still available.Plane may or may not be upright. You have

about a 50/50 chance of being upright or inverted.

It may be dark. You may be underwater.Keep your shoes on! Don’t panic!

Brace for Impact w/ thumbs outside of yoke.Touchdown at the lowest speed possible, but

don’t lose control.Use soft field landing technique.Use any power still available.Plane may or may not be upright. You have

about a 50/50 chance of being upright or inverted.

It may be dark. You may be underwater.Keep your shoes on! Don’t panic!

EgressEgressEgressEgressEstablish and Hold Reference PointKeep your feet on the deck to maintain

orientation. Remember – what was on your right when

you were upright is still on your right when you are inverted.

Do not release restraints ‘till motion stops!Don’t let go with both hands at the same

time!

Establish and Hold Reference PointKeep your feet on the deck to maintain

orientation. Remember – what was on your right when

you were upright is still on your right when you are inverted.

Do not release restraints ‘till motion stops!Don’t let go with both hands at the same

time!

EgressEgressEgressEgressOpen Doors - WindowsWait for Motion to StopTake Deep Breaths before being submerged.Count 3 - 4 seconds - release harnessUse Hand over Hand method to Egress-

always have one hand in contact w/ the aircraft to remain oriented.

Keep your feet on the deck to remain oriented.DO NOT INFLATE PFDs until clear of aircraft!

Open Doors - WindowsWait for Motion to StopTake Deep Breaths before being submerged.Count 3 - 4 seconds - release harnessUse Hand over Hand method to Egress-

always have one hand in contact w/ the aircraft to remain oriented.

Keep your feet on the deck to remain oriented.DO NOT INFLATE PFDs until clear of aircraft!

Egress – Get out already!Egress – Get out already!Egress – Get out already!Egress – Get out already!

Breath out - bubbles go to surfaceGet Clear of AircraftDo NOT Inflate PFD or Raft until clear

of aircraftSecure raft to yourself, not to airplane.

Tie individual rafts togetherYou may have less than a minute

before aircraft is submerged

Breath out - bubbles go to surfaceGet Clear of AircraftDo NOT Inflate PFD or Raft until clear

of aircraftSecure raft to yourself, not to airplane.

Tie individual rafts togetherYou may have less than a minute

before aircraft is submerged

Egress – Get out already!Egress – Get out already!Egress – Get out already!Egress – Get out already!

A Seat Belt Cutter may be a useful tool to have readily available.

They are inexpensive, and could save your life if your restraints do not release.

A Seat Belt Cutter may be a useful tool to have readily available.

They are inexpensive, and could save your life if your restraints do not release.

To find sources, search the Web using “Seat Belt Cutter” in your favorite search engine.

To find sources, search the Web using “Seat Belt Cutter” in your favorite search engine.

SurvivalSurvivalSurvivalSurvival

Get Away from AircraftInflate PFDDo a Head CountDeploy Raft - Get InInventory Gear - Assess Situation

Get Away from AircraftInflate PFDDo a Head CountDeploy Raft - Get InInventory Gear - Assess Situation

Most Important Stuff!Most Important Stuff!Most Important Stuff!Most Important Stuff!

Remain afloat – Life Jacket / PFD

Get out of the Water - Raft or Immersion Suit

Get help – Signaling Gear, PLB

Remain afloat – Life Jacket / PFD

Get out of the Water - Raft or Immersion Suit

Get help – Signaling Gear, PLB

Rescue!Rescue!Rescue!Rescue!

This pilot kept his cool and was rescued!This pilot kept his cool and was rescued!


Life Jackets / PFDs – Life Jackets / PFDs – Personal Flotation DevicesPersonal Flotation Devices


Lifesaving Systems Inc. (LSI)

This is the one the Coast Guard uses.

Rugged, designed for constant wear.

Storage pouches included for survival gear.

Nice hat not included.

Lifesaving Systems Inc. (LSI)

This is the one the Coast Guard uses.

Rugged, designed for constant wear.

Storage pouches included for survival gear.

Nice hat not included.



“Suspender” type – manufactured by several makers, including:

SoSpenders

Mustang

Light Weight & Comfortable.

Relatively inexpensive.

“Suspender” type – manufactured by several makers, including:

SoSpenders

Mustang

Light Weight & Comfortable.

Relatively inexpensive.



Switlik Constant Wear Vest

Similar to LSI vest

Includes pouches

Switlik Constant Wear Vest

Similar to LSI vest

Includes pouches

Life Jackets / PFDsLife Jackets / PFDsLife Jackets / PFDsLife Jackets / PFDs

EAM - Eastern Aero Marine Manufactures several inflatable vests including “Airline style” and quick

donning pouch vests.

EAM - Eastern Aero Marine Manufactures several inflatable vests including “Airline style” and quick

donning pouch vests.

Cold Water is a Big Hazard!Cold Water is a Big Hazard!Cold Water is a Big Hazard!Cold Water is a Big Hazard!

Now that you’ve survived the ditching, and have gotten out of the aircraft and are afloat, you still have a big problem.

You have to get out of the water, or stop the heat loss, or you will die.

The clock is running . . . Your remaining lifespan depends on the

temperature of the water and how you can stop your heat loss.

Now that you’ve survived the ditching, and have gotten out of the aircraft and are afloat, you still have a big problem.

You have to get out of the water, or stop the heat loss, or you will die.

The clock is running . . . Your remaining lifespan depends on the

temperature of the water and how you can stop your heat loss.

When Immersed in Cold Water:When Immersed in Cold Water:When Immersed in Cold Water:When Immersed in Cold Water:

Hypothermia can begin within 10-15 minutes.

Hypothermia can cause death, or contribute to drowning.

Unconsciousness occurs when core temp. is 89.6 degrees. (Normal 98.6)

Death likely when core cools below 86 degrees.

Hypothermia can begin within 10-15 minutes.

Hypothermia can cause death, or contribute to drowning.

Unconsciousness occurs when core temp. is 89.6 degrees. (Normal 98.6)

Death likely when core cools below 86 degrees.

Under good conditions Under good conditions (life jacket, light clothing, staying still)(life jacket, light clothing, staying still) -- --

Under good conditions Under good conditions (life jacket, light clothing, staying still)(life jacket, light clothing, staying still) -- --



hours



hours

Survival Factors in Cold WaterSurvival Factors in Cold Water Survival Factors in Cold WaterSurvival Factors in Cold Water

Will to Live - Most important in all survival situations.

Flotation - Personal Flotation Device (PFD) essential.

Heat Retention - Clothing / Raft / Survival Gear

Will to Live - Most important in all survival situations.

Flotation - Personal Flotation Device (PFD) essential.

Heat Retention - Clothing / Raft / Survival Gear

"STAY" Rules for Cold Water "STAY" Rules for Cold Water SurvivalSurvival

"STAY" Rules for Cold Water "STAY" Rules for Cold Water SurvivalSurvival

Stay AfloatStay DryStay StillStay WarmStay with Aircraft / Boat

Stay AfloatStay DryStay StillStay WarmStay with Aircraft / Boat

Stay AfloatStay AfloatStay AfloatStay Afloat Must breathe to prevent drowning Must control panic to breathe. Panic decreases ability to float.

Lifejacket / PFD Non-swimmers need assistance of PFD. Provides advantage recovering from cold

shock and allows better breath control.

Without PFD Flotation is possible even with heavy clothes. Trapped air in clothing assists flotation. Hold onto floating debris.

Must breathe to prevent drowning Must control panic to breathe. Panic decreases ability to float.

Lifejacket / PFD Non-swimmers need assistance of PFD. Provides advantage recovering from cold

shock and allows better breath control.

Without PFD Flotation is possible even with heavy clothes. Trapped air in clothing assists flotation. Hold onto floating debris.

Stay DryStay DryStay DryStay DryGet out of water ASAP.If that’s impossible, get main heat loss

areas out of water (hang on to floating object).

Get head dry and out of water.Head in water increases heat loss by

80% over head out of water.A dry suit is best protection, but not as

good as being out of the water.

Get out of water ASAP.If that’s impossible, get main heat loss

areas out of water (hang on to floating object).

Get head dry and out of water.Head in water increases heat loss by

80% over head out of water.A dry suit is best protection, but not as

good as being out of the water.

Stay StillStay StillStay StillStay Still

Movement increases circulation and heat exchange in extremities.

Staying still decreases heat loss by 30% over swimming or treading.

It is difficult to float motionless with out Lifejacket / PFD

Movement increases circulation and heat exchange in extremities.

Staying still decreases heat loss by 30% over swimming or treading.

It is difficult to float motionless with out Lifejacket / PFD

Stay WarmStay WarmStay WarmStay Warm

Main Heat Loss Areas

–Head & Neck–Groin–Sides of Chest

Protect main heat loss areas Wear coat & hat

Main Heat Loss Areas

–Head & Neck–Groin–Sides of Chest

Protect main heat loss areas Wear coat & hat

Stay WarmStay WarmIf getting out of water is impossible, If getting out of water is impossible,

assume assume HELP, HUDDLE, Human HELP, HUDDLE, Human CarpetCarpet or or Human ChainHuman Chain positions. positions.

These positions double survival These positions double survival time over swimming or treading.time over swimming or treading.

These positions are impossible These positions are impossible without a PFD.without a PFD.

Stay WarmStay Warm Stay WarmStay Warm

H.E.L.P.Heat Escape Lessening Posture

Impossible without a PFD

H.E.L.P.Heat Escape Lessening Posture


HUDDLEA “group hug” to conserve heat


HUDDLEA “group hug” to conserve heat


STAY WARMSTAY WARMSTAY WARMSTAY WARM

Human Chain

Human Chain

Human CarpetHuman Carpet

Stay with Aircraft / BoatStay with Aircraft / BoatStay with Aircraft / BoatStay with Aircraft / BoatMay be possible to get out of water.Better chance of being spotted - larger

target.Success in swimming to shore depends

on many variables. Swimming increases heat loss.

In 50 degree water, average person wearing PFD and light clothing can cover a distance of only .85 mile before being incapacitated by hypothermia.

May be possible to get out of water.Better chance of being spotted - larger

target.Success in swimming to shore depends

on many variables. Swimming increases heat loss.

In 50 degree water, average person wearing PFD and light clothing can cover a distance of only .85 mile before being incapacitated by hypothermia.

Life RaftsLife RaftsLife RaftsLife Rafts

Patten Group

1 Man LRU-18/U Raft

This is the “One Man Yacht” used by the Coast Guard

Also available with protective covers

Patten Group

1 Man LRU-18/U Raft

This is the “One Man Yacht” used by the Coast Guard

Also available with protective covers


The Patten Group one person raft is also available in a wearable package. This insures that the raft goes out of the plane when you do.

The Patten Group one person raft is also available in a wearable package. This insures that the raft goes out of the plane when you do.


Winslow Life Raft

Manufactures a wide variety of excellent quality rafts,suitable for boats, aircraft, off shore, etc.

Winslow Life Raft

Manufactures a wide variety of excellent quality rafts,suitable for boats, aircraft, off shore, etc.

ADCADCAviation Dry Suit Coverall

Worn with special undergarments, ADCs are expensive, require training and maintenance. But for pilots who spend a lot of time over water, they may be lifesavers.

Aviation Dry Suit Coverall

Worn with special undergarments, ADCs are expensive, require training and maintenance. But for pilots who spend a lot of time over water, they may be lifesavers.

So now you’re floating around So now you’re floating around in your little boat. Now what?in your little boat. Now what?So now you’re floating around So now you’re floating around in your little boat. Now what?in your little boat. Now what?

Assess your situation – what shape are you in – breathing, injured, warm, dry?

Do you have an ELT, or PLB?Are there any vessels or aircraft nearby?How can you attract attention?

Assess your situation – what shape are you in – breathing, injured, warm, dry?

Do you have an ELT, or PLB?Are there any vessels or aircraft nearby?How can you attract attention?

How long is it going to take to How long is it going to take to be rescued?be rescued?

How long is it going to take to How long is it going to take to be rescued?be rescued?

That depends a great deal on your prior planning!

Does anyone know that you’re in trouble? Did you file a Flight Plan? Did you send a MAYDAY? Were you in communication w/ ATC, an AFSS,

or anyone else? Did your ELT automatically activate or did you

manually activate your ELT, or PLB? If no one knows you’re there, get comfy. It’ll be a

while!

That depends a great deal on your prior planning!

Does anyone know that you’re in trouble? Did you file a Flight Plan? Did you send a MAYDAY? Were you in communication w/ ATC, an AFSS,

or anyone else? Did your ELT automatically activate or did you

manually activate your ELT, or PLB? If no one knows you’re there, get comfy. It’ll be a

while!

How long. . . ?How long. . . ?How long. . . ?How long. . . ?

If in contact w/ ATC, rescue services will be notified immediately.

Accurate position info greatly expedites recovery.

A 406 MHz ELT or PLB gives immediate notification, accurate location.

If in contact w/ ATC, rescue services will be notified immediately.

Accurate position info greatly expedites recovery.

A 406 MHz ELT or PLB gives immediate notification, accurate location.

What about Flight Plans?What about Flight Plans?

Search process begins 30 minutes after Search process begins 30 minutes after flight plans expire, if not cancelled, flight plans expire, if not cancelled,

BUT:BUT:The initial search is by radio & phone, to The initial search is by radio & phone, to

see if you have landed along your route.see if you have landed along your route.

When a Flight Plan Expires…When a Flight Plan Expires…When a Flight Plan Expires…When a Flight Plan Expires… At ETA +30 min an INREQ -Information Request -

is sent by FSS or ARTCC to begin a PRECOM - phone calls to enroute airports and quick ramp checks.

ALNOT - ALERT NOTICE - sent 1 hour after an INREQ. EXCOM begins – All ATC Facilities are notified. Search area is up to 50 miles either side of route.

1 hour after ALNOT, (if not before) Rescue Coordination Center is notified, then SAR services. Search area is expanded to maximum range of aircraft.

At ETA +30 min an INREQ -Information Request - is sent by FSS or ARTCC to begin a PRECOM - phone calls to enroute airports and quick ramp checks.

ALNOT - ALERT NOTICE - sent 1 hour after an INREQ. EXCOM begins – All ATC Facilities are notified. Search area is up to 50 miles either side of route.

1 hour after ALNOT, (if not before) Rescue Coordination Center is notified, then SAR services. Search area is expanded to maximum range of aircraft.

SAR Response Time LineSAR Response Time LineSAR Response Time LineSAR Response Time LineETA + 30 Minutes INRQ 30 minALNOT + 1 hour 1+30 minRCC notified + 1 hour ~2+30 minSAR forces are activated ~3+00 min

THESE TIMES ARE ONLY IF YOU FILE A FLIGHT PLAN!

See why we don’t want to depend on THAT?

ETA + 30 Minutes INRQ 30 minALNOT + 1 hour 1+30 minRCC notified + 1 hour ~2+30 minSAR forces are activated ~3+00 min

THESE TIMES ARE ONLY IF YOU FILE A FLIGHT PLAN!

See why we don’t want to depend on THAT?

How long. . . ?How long. . . ?How long. . . ?How long. . . ? The less info SAR units have about your

location, the larger the Search Area. The larger the Search Area, the longer the

search until you are located. The more accurately you communicate

position information, the more accurate your flight plan is regarding time and route, and if your 406 MHz ELT registration information is complete and current, the better your chances for a speedy recovery.

The less info SAR units have about your location, the larger the Search Area.

The larger the Search Area, the longer the search until you are located.

The more accurately you communicate position information, the more accurate your flight plan is regarding time and route, and if your 406 MHz ELT registration information is complete and current, the better your chances for a speedy recovery.

How long. . . ?How long. . . ?How long. . . ?How long. . . ?ELT searches initially require location

processing by Satellites. 121.5 MHz beacons can take one hour or

more to alert (due to satellite positions).These are subject to a high false alarm rate

(97%), so confirmation is required before SAR forces are deployed.

406 MHz emergency beacons are vastly superior to 121.5 MHz units, and result in a much faster, more accurate response.

ELT searches initially require location processing by Satellites.

121.5 MHz beacons can take one hour or more to alert (due to satellite positions).

These are subject to a high false alarm rate (97%), so confirmation is required before SAR forces are deployed.

406 MHz emergency beacons are vastly superior to 121.5 MHz units, and result in a much faster, more accurate response.

Why You May Need A New Why You May Need A New ELT.ELT.

“The International Cospas-Sarsat Program will terminate satellite processing of distress signals from 121.5 and 243 MHz emergency beacons on February 1, 2009.

After this date, mariners, aviators and other persons will have to switch to emergency beacons operating at 406 MHz in order to be detected by satellites.” - - - USCG Office of Search and Rescue

What’s the difference in . . . What’s the difference in . . . Coverage?Coverage?

406 MHz Global coverage with

Geostationary satellites and MEOSATS

121.5 MHz Ground station dependent Ground stations have about

1800 mile radius Only 1/3 of the globe covered Waiting time increases closer

to Equator (can be > 2 hrs) No immediate alerting

capability unless satellite directly over distressed vessel.

What’s the difference in . . . What’s the difference in . . . False Alarms?False Alarms?

406 MHz All alerts from beacons 1 in 10 alerts are actual

distress Beacon registration

allows rapid verification 80% of false alerts are

resolved by phone w/o launching SAR responders

121.5 MHz 1 in 8 alerts from beacons Non-beacon interferers have

included ATM machines, pizza ovens, and stadium scoreboards!

Less than 2 in 1000 alerts are actual distress

Analog signal only: no digital ID code to let SARSAT system know signal is from a beacon

No way to verify alerts

What’s the difference in . . . What’s the difference in . . . Alerting?Alerting?

406 MHz SAR assets launch on

first alert. Average 2.5 hrs saved in

maritime, 6 hrs in inland. Assets on scene earlier Vessel/aircraft ID, POC

with alerts allows rapid corroboration or stand-down.

Near instantaneous detection

5.0 Watt output

121.5 MHz High false alarm rate

makes first-alert launch unfeasible.

Absent independent distress corroboration, RCCs must wait for additional alert info.

Alerts are anonymous. No instantaneous

detection. 0.1 Watt output

Let’s see what Let’s see what that looks like.that looks like.

406 MHz 1-3 nm accuracy 100 yard accuracy with GPS-

equipped beacon Non-GPS initial search area

about 12.5 sq nm GPS-equipped

beacons reduce search area to a negligible area

Search area reduced 97% vs 121.5 beacons

121.5 MHz 12-16 nm accuracy 450 sq nm initial search

area on average

What’s the difference in . . . What’s the difference in . . . Position Information?Position Information?

121.5 Beacon – 450 Sq Mi 121.5 Beacon – 450 Sq Mi Search AreaSearch Area

21.2 NM

21.2 NM

406 Beacon w/o GPS 406 Beacon w/o GPS 12.5 Sq MI Search Area12.5 Sq MI Search Area

3.5 NM

3.5 NM

406 Beacon w/ GPS406 Beacon w/ GPS100 Yard Accuracy100 Yard Accuracy

406 Beacon w/ GPS406 Beacon w/ GPS100 Yard Accuracy100 Yard Accuracy

100 YD

100 YD

What’s the difference in Cost?What’s the difference in Cost?406 MHz

Starting at $1000 GPS units $1500

121.5 MHz Starting at $500

Ask yourself . . . Ask yourself . . .

• What’s your life worth? What’s your family’s life worth?

• If you ever really need it, won’t it be worth whatever it cost to have it work?

Other voices . . . Other voices . . . ““It is important to note that after It is important to note that after

2009, existing 121.5-MHz ELTs, 2009, existing 121.5-MHz ELTs, although still legal from the FAA's although still legal from the FAA's perspective, will provide extremely perspective, will provide extremely limited assistance if an aircraft limited assistance if an aircraft crashes, especially in a remote crashes, especially in a remote location.” location.” - - - AOPA Regulatory Brief- - - AOPA Regulatory Brief

Other voices . . . Other voices . . . ““134 extra lives and millions of 134 extra lives and millions of

dollars in SAR resources could be dollars in SAR resources could be saved per year if aircraft switched saved per year if aircraft switched to 406 MHz ELTs.” to 406 MHz ELTs.”

- - - NASA Goddard Spaceflight Center- - - NASA Goddard Spaceflight Center

Other voices . . . Other voices . . . ““Due to the obvious advantages of Due to the obvious advantages of

406 MHz beacons and the 406 MHz beacons and the significant disadvantages of the significant disadvantages of the older 121.5 MHz beacons, . . . all older 121.5 MHz beacons, . . . all pilots are highly encouraged to pilots are highly encouraged to consider making the switch to 406!”consider making the switch to 406!”

- - - US Coast Guard Office of Search and Rescue - - - US Coast Guard Office of Search and Rescue

So how long. . . ?So how long. . . ?So how long. . . ?So how long. . . ?Unless your MAYDAY call was heard . . .Unless you have a 406 MHz ELT . . .. . . it will likely be several hours before

anyone starts looking for you.Then, SAR units have to plan a search and

be deployed.And then, you still have to be found!You may have drifted with the wind or

waves, enlarging the search area.Care to look at those cold water survival

times again?

Unless your MAYDAY call was heard . . .Unless you have a 406 MHz ELT . . .. . . it will likely be several hours before

anyone starts looking for you.Then, SAR units have to plan a search and

be deployed.And then, you still have to be found!You may have drifted with the wind or

waves, enlarging the search area.Care to look at those cold water survival

times again?

Remember, this is under Remember, this is under goodgood conditions!conditions!

Remember, this is under Remember, this is under goodgood conditions!conditions!



hours

This is why getting out of cold water is a big, big deal!



hours

This is why getting out of cold water is a big, big deal!

What are my chances of What are my chances of surviving any of this?surviving any of this?

What are my chances of What are my chances of surviving any of this?surviving any of this?

Very good, IF you are prepared.A ditching is an intentional water

touchdown under control, not an uncontrolled crash.

Of the 179 ditchings reviewed, only 22, or 12 percent, resulted in fatalities.

The overall general aviation ditching survival rate is 88 percent.

Very good, IF you are prepared.A ditching is an intentional water

touchdown under control, not an uncontrolled crash.

Of the 179 ditchings reviewed, only 22, or 12 percent, resulted in fatalities.

The overall general aviation ditching survival rate is 88 percent.

From Ditching Myths Torpedoed! By Paul Bertorelli, Aviation Safety1999 Belvoir Publications Published on Equipped To Survive™ From Ditching Myths Torpedoed! By Paul Bertorelli, Aviation Safety1999 Belvoir Publications Published on Equipped To Survive™

Now, we go Now, we go to work!to work!

Signaling DevicesSignaling DevicesSignaling DevicesSignaling DevicesMirrorFlaresWhistleELT (or PLB can be carried as extra equipment) Dye - SeeRescue DeviceChemical Light SticksStrobeCell Phone or Aviation Handheld Radio

if in waterproof bag

MirrorFlaresWhistleELT (or PLB can be carried as extra equipment) Dye - SeeRescue DeviceChemical Light SticksStrobeCell Phone or Aviation Handheld Radio

if in waterproof bag

Where is the person ?Where is the person ?

Where’s the person?Where’s the person?

Signaling Gear Signaling Gear Be Seen to Be RescuedBe Seen to Be Rescued

Signaling Gear Signaling Gear Be Seen to Be RescuedBe Seen to Be Rescued

SeeRescue® Streamer

Replaces dye markers

Doesn’t disperse in strong winds or currents

Very conspicuous from the air

SeeRescue® Streamer

Replaces dye markers

Doesn’t disperse in strong winds or currents

Very conspicuous from the air

Signaling Gear - ELTSignaling Gear - ELTSignaling Gear - ELTSignaling Gear - ELT

Emergency Locator Transmitter Most U.S. civil aircraft are required to carry ELTs by congressional mandate.

406 MHz ELTs are required to be registered. This registration is free and can be done on line at http://www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov/

ELTs should only be tested according to the manufacturers instructions.

Emergency Locator Transmitter Most U.S. civil aircraft are required to carry ELTs by congressional mandate.

406 MHz ELTs are required to be registered. This registration is free and can be done on line at http://www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov/

ELTs should only be tested according to the manufacturers instructions.

Signaling Gear - PLBSignaling Gear - PLBSignaling Gear - PLBSignaling Gear - PLB

Personal Locator Beacon

Optional distress alerting satellite beacon.

--Like a “personal” ELT except that it must be manually activated. --PLBs operate on 406 MHz. --Some include GPS. --About the size of a cell phone.

If you don’t get a new ELT, at least get one of these!

Personal Locator Beacon

Optional distress alerting satellite beacon.

--Like a “personal” ELT except that it must be manually activated. --PLBs operate on 406 MHz. --Some include GPS. --About the size of a cell phone.

If you don’t get a new ELT, at least get one of these!

Signaling GearSignaling GearSignaling GearSignaling Gear

Signal Mirror and Whistle – Two very basic, very inexpensive and very effective signaling devices, which

could save your life.

Signal Mirror and Whistle – Two very basic, very inexpensive and very effective signaling devices, which

could save your life.

Signaling GearSignaling GearSignaling GearSignaling Gear

Strobe lights – Inexpensive and essential for recovery at night.

Strobe lights – Inexpensive and essential for recovery at night.

Survival Gear PouchSurvival Gear PouchSurvival Gear PouchSurvival Gear Pouch

A pouch like this can be used to carry essential signaling and survival gear, when attached to PFDs without built in equipment pouches.

A pouch like this can be used to carry essential signaling and survival gear, when attached to PFDs without built in equipment pouches.

Have a plan!Have a plan!Have a plan!Have a plan!

Actors and athletes practice over and over to get their actions correct.

Isn’t survival more important than a show or a game?

Plan, and practice the plan.Don’t let an emergency be the first time

you practice survival skills.You practice flying. Practice surviving.

Actors and athletes practice over and over to get their actions correct.

Isn’t survival more important than a show or a game?

Plan, and practice the plan.Don’t let an emergency be the first time

you practice survival skills.You practice flying. Practice surviving.

Practice your PlanPractice your PlanPractice your PlanPractice your PlanMake Ditching / Egress procedures part

of every pre-flight briefing.Include:Emergency callsDitching proceduresBrace PositionsRemoval of restraintsEgress proceduresSurvival equipment

Make Ditching / Egress procedures part of every pre-flight briefing.

Include:Emergency callsDitching proceduresBrace PositionsRemoval of restraintsEgress proceduresSurvival equipment

Pilot / Crew Egress ExercisePilot / Crew Egress Exercise Pilot / Crew Egress ExercisePilot / Crew Egress Exercise Make radio calls Secure ‘stuff’ in the cockpit Tighten restraints Don’t inflate PFD yet Who opens doors Door opening procedure How to jam doors open How to move the seats What is the alternate

egress path Brace positions

Make radio calls Secure ‘stuff’ in the cockpit Tighten restraints Don’t inflate PFD yet Who opens doors Door opening procedure How to jam doors open How to move the seats What is the alternate

egress path Brace positions

Who takes out the raft / signaling gear

Bring hats, coats, wear shoes

Order of egress What to do after egress How to inflate PFD / Raft Where to meet Who does head count Tie rafts together

Who takes out the raft / signaling gear

Bring hats, coats, wear shoes

Order of egress What to do after egress How to inflate PFD / Raft Where to meet Who does head count Tie rafts together

Practice your PlanPractice your PlanPractice your PlanPractice your PlanWhile practicing egress, check position

of flaps vs. doors. In some high wing planes lowered flaps block the doors.

Add to survival equipment – – Orange stocking (watch) cap- keeps head

warm, increases visibility. – Large Industrial Strength Trash Bags – can

provide thermal protection if worn in water.Practice estimating swells and wind

speed by observing the water surface.Practice Soft Field Landings.

While practicing egress, check position of flaps vs. doors. In some high wing planes lowered flaps block the doors.

Add to survival equipment – – Orange stocking (watch) cap- keeps head

warm, increases visibility. – Large Industrial Strength Trash Bags – can

provide thermal protection if worn in water.Practice estimating swells and wind

speed by observing the water surface.Practice Soft Field Landings.

Plan to avoid mishaps!Plan to avoid mishaps!Plan to avoid mishaps!Plan to avoid mishaps!Safety isn’t an event, it’s an attitude!Avoid long flights over water if you aren’t

properly equipped.Check your aircraft, check your survival

equipment, check your planning, check yourself.

Check your fuel quality, fuel quantity, and know how to use all of the fuel you carry.

Check the weather, then check the fuel again. One more time, check the fuel.

Safety isn’t an event, it’s an attitude!Avoid long flights over water if you aren’t

properly equipped.Check your aircraft, check your survival

equipment, check your planning, check yourself.

Check your fuel quality, fuel quantity, and know how to use all of the fuel you carry.

Check the weather, then check the fuel again. One more time, check the fuel.

PlanPlan your Flight, Fly your your Flight, Fly your PlanPlan!!PlanPlan your Flight, Fly your your Flight, Fly your PlanPlan!!No one plans to have a mishap.But lots of mishaps occur from lack of

proper planning.The best way to avoid using Water

Survival skills is to plan to avoid a mishap.

But plan to use those skills in the event of an un-planned event.

Even the best of plans can go awry.Plan on it happening to you! See a pattern here?

No one plans to have a mishap.But lots of mishaps occur from lack of

proper planning.The best way to avoid using Water

Survival skills is to plan to avoid a mishap.

But plan to use those skills in the event of an un-planned event.

Even the best of plans can go awry.Plan on it happening to you! See a pattern here?

Let’s not meet by accident!Let’s not meet by accident!Let’s not meet by accident!Let’s not meet by accident!

Questions?Questions?Questions?Questions?

Thank you!Thank you!Thank you!Thank you!