Fire blankets and a strong bucket will also help douse a fire. Bailing equipment Taking on water increases the risk of swamping or capsizing - you need a method of emptying the boat quickly and efficiently. Bilge pumps range from manually operated to electric. A good hand-operated pump is an excellent addition to your gear list. Check its operation regularly, and keep it well maintained.
Clean bilges reduce the possibility of blocked pumps.
If your boat has fittings for rowlocks carry correct length oars with rowlocks securely attached. If not, make sure the paddles are big and strong enough to do the job. Practise rowing with them to see how difficult it is. A small auxiliary engine with a separate fuel tank may be an alternative. Liferafts Liferafts are the most efficient means of evacuating passengers and crew from a sinking boat.