- The skipper must check the weather conditions before deciding to put to sea. If there is a risk of thunderstorms, the skipper must avoid putting to sea.

- A lightning safety device is installed on the boat.

- An earth braid connects the mast foot to the keel.

Precautions to be taken by the occupants of the boat during a storm

- Ensuring the safety of everyone on board is the fundamental goal of lightning protection.

- Turn off the engine, turn off the battery switches and disconnect all electronic and electrical equipment, including equipment mounted on the mast.

- Occupants should stay as much as possible inside the closed vessel.

- Occupants should not be in the water or let their arms or legs hang in the water.

- Occupants should avoid touching any part connected to a lightning protection device, especially in such a way that the parts become connected.

- Occupants must avoid contact with the metal parts of the rigging, spars, deck fittings and boat wiring. Even inside the boat, occupants should stay as far as possible away

from the mast.

Maintenance

- Flexible radio antennas should not be tied down during a thunderstorm.

- If the boat has been struck by lightning, the compass and electronic and electrical equipment must be examined to determine whether any damage or calibration change has

occurred.

- If the vessel has been struck by lightning, the lightning protection device must be inspected for damage and to verify the integrity of the device and continuity of the earthing.

197837 RCD-2

Index C

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