27 Mar Irish yacht sailors called on to help RNLI with research
A new research project being run by the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) is exploring attitudes towards risk and safety, and the various ways in which yacht sailors participate in their sport.
The research, which is supported by the 
Irish Sailing Association (ISA) will look at what motivates sailors, how often they go to sea, their experience and training, awareness of potential hazards and use of safety procedures and equipment. The findings will be used to help develop tailored and relevant safety messages for the yacht sailing community.
An online questionnaire for yacht sailors in Ireland launches today (27 March) and will run for five weeks until 30 April. All of those who participate in yacht sailing who are based in Ireland – no matter how often or what level of experience – are encouraged to take part. The RNLI is asking people to log on to www.rnliyachtingIreland.substance.coop (click link) and complete the survey, which will take about 15 minutes.
Pip Hare, RNLI Coastal Safety Manager, explains ‘The aim of this research is to help us understand why people get involved in sailing and how they behave when they are on the water so we can provide the most relevant and useful safety information to them. We’re working with the Irish Sailing Association to join expertise in coastal safety with experience of the sport. Once we have the results of the research, we will work together to develop the most suitable safety programmes and advice.’
All who participate in the survey are offered the option of free entry into a prize draw to win a McMurdo Fast Find personal locator beacon. A winner will be chosen at random on 31 May. Full terms and conditions for the prize draw, as well as further information about the study, can also be found through the above link.