WATER AND MOLD RESISTANT
Today, modern sailboat performance characteristics have evolved to a point that enable far more effective rescue techniques than current standard practices if experiencing Crew Overboard (COB) situations. The Sailing Rescue Swimmer in combination with a trained crew, are the game changers which will add a few more options for rescuing a sailor who is in the water with difficulties. Today, enhanced performance in many boats, increases the distance separating the Person in the Water from the boat (in some cases it can be a few miles before the boat is controlled and turned around). Crews do and will continue to lose sight of the Person in the Water (PIW). Controlling a vessel at high speeds with two or even three headsails deployed can take up to 20 minutes (or more). In 2014, during the Clipper Race in 2014, it took thirty minutes to find the PIW - and when they did, the PIW was unable to help themselves due to hypothermia. Sometimes, it may be impossible to rescue or even recover a PIW without the utilization of a Surface or Rescue Swimmer.
Without practice, training and specialized equipment, sending a second person into the water may increase risk in a way that cannot be controlled. Some even suggest the risk is being doubled. However, through training, expert advice, procedures, certification, proven methods, and equipment the additional risk can be controlled.