Information provided by Seattle Sailing Club

This Saturday, experience a seminar unlike any Seattle Sailing Club has hosted before. Thanks to a great idea from SNW broker, Ben Braden, we are providing an opportunity to safely experience what it's like to be overboard in all your winter gear.

Instructed by a lifeguard instructor/ sailor/water safety guru (also Ben's mother), you will have a chance to experience trying to swim in all your foul weather gear, deploy your inflatable life jacket, and learn a ton.

Some of the topics:
• Leave your boots on, or kick them off?
• Swimming in your gear
• The problem with Velcro
• Pros-Cons of various Life Jacket styles
• How to help your crew get you back on board
• Alternative flotation measures

For most people that fall overboard, the combination of inexperience, cold, and lack of mobility result in one thing: PANIC. As with many things, learning a theory is good, but having personal experience is better. Join this seminar to learn more about what to expect if you ever find yourself in that very serious situation, and help reduce the PANIC response.

The program will take place at the Ballard Community Pool (1471 NW 67th St, Seattle, WA 98117, (206) 684-4094) from 2pm - 4pm, but please arrive no later than 1:45 to change and be ready for an on-time start. Plan to wear a swimsuit under your gear, and obviously bring a change of clothes.

We recommend wearing everything you would on a winter day on the Sound. This may include:
• Sea Boots with Heavy Socks
• Wicking and Fleece layers on top and bottom
• Full suit of Foulies
• Gloves, Hat, Gaiter, etc.
• Your life jacket (we'll bring a bunch from SSC, too)
Since we'll be out of the office, please CALL to RSVP and pay for your space in the Seminar. Space is limited, so reserve early! The cost is $35/person.