Boats will be equipped and operated in a safe manner appropriate to conditions.

The Race Committee shall assess the weather conditions on the course. At its discretion, the Committee may require all crew members of boats entered in the race to wear USCGA-approved life jackets (PFDs). If wearing PFDs is required, one will be mounted on the line side of the Race Committee Boat (RCB) in the vicinity of the RC identifying flag. When required by the RC, crew members not wearing PFDs after the Preparatory signal is given, will be disqualified.

In lieu of no requirement, the skipper and crew are responsible for their personal safety and should use good judgment in potentially hazardous weather conditions. The skipper may elect to abandon a race even if the race is allowed to continue by the Race Committee. If a skipper decides to abandon a race, the Race Committee or a safety boat should be notified if possible. Although the SLSC provides safety boats, all skippers and crew of racing boats have the responsibility, in the spirit of good sportsmanship, to aid fellow racers who are in difficulty.