Cruising in Fog

• Check the Weather forecast.
  Aside from the Weather conditions, the forecast can tell you about the state of visibility in the area where you will be sailing. It is wise not to go if there are Fog formations in the area.


• Ensure the safety of all crew members.
  It is better to be prepared. Take the necessary measures in order to keep the crew members safe and secure. It is important to wear Life Jackets beforehand. Make sure to prepare the devices that you may need such as flares and other devices for sending Distress Signals.


• Prepare the necessary equipment.
  It makes sense to bring along the appropriate sound signals such as foghorns. Keep in mind that visibility is reduced so visual signals may be of little help when Fog appears at sea.

• Make yourself known that you are in the vicinity. A radar reflector can greatly help in avoiding collisions under foggy conditions. This should be attached on the Rigging or as high as possible.
• Make the appropriate sound signals using a foghorn.
• Assigning additional lookouts will also help to avoid collisions.
• Plot the vessel's position and update it regularly. You never know when electronic failure will occur. An electronic Chart will not be able to help you should the equipment fails. Thus, it is better to have an updated paper Chart.